LOUISVILLE, Ky. — State residents are being advised to keep a close eye on electric outage maps and utility updates as severe weather moves through the Commonwealth, potentially leaving thousands without power.
How to track outages and who to call
Customers of the region’s major utilities can check online outage maps and report problems by phone. Utility contact information supplied to residents includes:
- Duke Energy: 1-800-544-6900
- LG&E: 502-589-1444 or 1-800-331-7370
- KU/ODP: 1-800-981-0600
The LG&E/KU outage map and company portals allow customers to view real-time information on affected areas. Duke Energy maintains its own outage-tracking site, and the Kentucky Electric Cooperatives offer maps and updates for members of the co-op network.
Practical advice for staying safe during outages
Utility officials and emergency responders emphasize several straightforward precautions residents should follow during storms and power interruptions:
- Assume any downed power line is energized and stay far away. A line that appears inactive can still carry fatal voltage.
- Report downed lines and outages immediately to your utility using the numbers above or the provider’s website or mobile app.
- Keep a battery-powered radio or charged phone available for weather and emergency updates. If possible, have a backup power source for essential medical devices.
- Use generators only outdoors and away from windows; carbon monoxide from generators poses a deadly risk indoors.
“While some energized wires spark and snap, others may not appear dangerous,” utility notices point out. That unpredictability is why crews and first responders urge residents to keep clear and report hazards rather than attempting to move debris or lines themselves.
What the outage information shows
Outage maps typically display the number of customers affected, estimated restoration times when available and the locations where crews are assigned. The data are updated frequently during major weather events but can change quickly as damage assessments continue.
| Utility | How to Monitor | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| LG&E / KU | Company outage map and customer portal | 502-589-1444 or 1-800-331-7370 |
| Duke Energy | Website outage tracker | 1-800-544-6900 |
| Kentucky Electric Cooperatives | Co-op outage maps and local co-op sites | Varies by co-op |
Local impact and what to expect next
Severe storms can produce widespread power loss from fallen trees, snapped poles and flooded equipment. Restoration priorities typically focus on hospitals, emergency services and critical infrastructure, then move to neighborhoods and individual homes. Customers should expect restoration times to vary across regions depending on the severity of damage and the availability of repair crews.
Those with special medical needs that depend on electricity should notify their utility as soon as possible so providers can include them in priority planning where programs exist. Residents who lose power for an extended period should prepare for alternate shelter, refrigeration loss and the safeguard of perishable medications.
Staying informed
For continuous updates, download the Spectrum News app and follow official utility channels. Outage maps and direct lines to reporting centers are the most reliable sources for status and estimated restoration times during fast-changing weather events.
If you encounter a downed line or see sparks, keep children and pets away, secure the area if you can do so safely, and call the appropriate utility number immediately. Do not attempt to touch or move the line or anything in contact with it.
WE NEWS will continue to monitor utility reports and emergency notifications and will publish updates as more information becomes available.
