CHARLESTON, W.Va., January 16, 2013 – Appalachian Power is making preparations for potential power outages that could occur starting tomorrow from a fast-moving winter storm.  The latest information suggests beginning Thursday morning rain will change to snow in the mountainous regions of southwest Virginia and southeastern West Virginia.

Heavy, wet snow has the potential to cause significant damage to electrical facilities, including the ability to bring down power lines and poles, according to Phil Wright, vice president – distribution operations. “This morning’s weather forecast changed quickly from a threat of on-going rain to snow, causing us to immediately prepare for outages should they occur,” said Wright.

In advance of the storm, all Appalachian Power contract line workers, damage assessors and tree crews are ready to respond. Beyond that, additional resources located outside the Appalachian service area are being secured and will be staged in the hardest-hit areas. Workers will assist locally-based Appalachian Power employees should the storm cause damage to electrical facilities.

Customers should prepare an emergency kit with flashlights and fresh batteries;battery-powered radios or televisions; candles, matches, or lighters; water for drinking and cooking; portable heater (oil or gas); camping equipment (sleeping bags, camp stoves, lanterns); canned goods and a manual can opener and manufacturers’ instructions for power-operated equipment such as the garage door. Customers should charge cell phones and have  available a mobile charger for their automobiles. More information can be found on AppalachianPower.com in the section “Outages & Problems.”