Preparing for Hurricane Helene | Eastern NC Now

Press Release:

    Hurricane Helene is on its way to the Carolinas and Duke Energy is ready. We've positioned lineworkers, tree trimmers, damage assessors and other support personnel throughout the Carolinas. They are prepared to respond to whatever Helene brings.

    See our latest press release.

    Meanwhile, our hydroelectric operations team continues to move water through Duke Energy's river basins to reduce lake levels and make room for rain that is expected through Friday. Flooding is still possible due to unpredictable rainfall amounts.

    Updated lake level information including real-time levels is available at Duke Energy - Lake Levels Data (duke-energy.com). Click on the appropriate river basin and then look for the lake you are interested in. You can also click on the "Lake Message Update" to see the latest information for that specific lake. Information is also available by calling 800-829-5253 and on the Duke Energy Lake View mobile app.

    We encourage individuals who live along lakes and rivers and in flood prone areas to pay close attention to the local media and weather forecasts for changes in lake levels.

    Duke Energy is asking all other customers in the Carolinas to ready themselves and their family members for impacts that could include potential power outages. For more tips on how to prepare for storms, and how Duke Energy can help, please visit duke-energy.com/StormTips.

    Electrical safety guidelines for floods 

• If rising water threatens your home or business - or if you evacuate due to flooding - turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.
• Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed electrical lines.
• Don't drive over - and don't stand near - downed electrical lines.
• Never replace a fuse or touch a circuit breaker with wet hands, or while standing on a wet or damp surface.
• If your home or business is flooded, Duke Energy cannot reconnect power until the electrical system has been inspected by a licensed electrician. If there is damage, an electrician will need to make necessary repairs and obtain verification from your local building inspection authority before power can be restored.

    Steps to take in the event of a power outage:

• Report outages through our website, mobile app, text OUT to 57801, or call 800POWERON (800-769-3766).
• Sign up for Outage Alerts and regularly check our Outage Map for estimated restoration times.
• Visit our Storm Center for comprehensive safety tips before, during, and after severe weather.

    Should you have any questions about this information, please do not hesitate to reach out.


   Contact: Lauren Wargo
   District Manager
   Government & Community Relations
   103 Executive Parkway, New Bern, NC 28562
   Phone: Cell: (216) 410-0704 Office: (252) 636-6339
   Email: Lauren.wargo@duke-energy.com