1/23/2026 – AM: WINTER STORM FERN HAS SHIFTED FROM SNOW TO ICE
A significant winter storm is forecasted to impact our area. As this weather moves in, Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) wants members to understand what to expect, how restoration efforts may be impacted, and how to prepare.
First 24–48 Hours After the Storm
During the early stages of a widespread winter event, restoration efforts may take longer than usual due to challenging conditions, including:
- Falling trees, along with icy and hazardous road conditions, which can limit safe crew travel
- Blocked or impassable roads while snow, ice, and debris are being cleared
- Downed trees, limbs, or live power lines across roadways, which must be made safe before restoration work can begin
- Vehicle accidents or emergency situations that require immediate response
- Continued winter weather, which may cause additional damage after the storm begins
If emergency requests are received from agencies such as VDOT or local emergency services, public safety is always our first priority, and crews may be redirected as needed to address hazards like downed, energized power lines or unsafe roadway conditions.
During this time period, forecasts show that SEC service areas will be experiencing below-freezing temperatures; if you are without power, please be prepared.
What You Can Do to Prepare & How SEC Has Prepared – CLICK HERE
Reporting Outages:
- Text “#out” to 866-878-5514 using the mobile number on your account.
- Call 866-878-5514 to report the outage using our automated service.
- SmartHub mobile app: Tap “Report an Issue/Inquiry,” choose “Power Outage,” confirm your account location, and click “Send.”
How do I know if my power has been restored?
- Members may text #status to 866-878-5514 at any time to receive the latest status information related to their outage, including if power is on or off
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1/21/2026 – PM: Winter Storm Preparation Update
As we prepare for this weekend’s winter storm, Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) has taken steps to be ready to respond safely and efficiently.
CREW & PERSONNEL READINESS – In total, more than 105 personnel and crews have been requested or staged in preparation for this storm to support potential restoration efforts across our service area, including SEC’s normal operations as detailed below.
STAGED RESOURCES – The following resources are staged or expected to be staged on our system in preparation for this storm:
CONTRACT & MUTUAL AID CREWS
- 7 Contract Line Crews (pole replacement crews) ~35 personnel
- 10 Mutual Aid Bucket Crews (line repair crews) ~20 personnel
- 22 Vegetation Crews (tree removal crews) ~50 personnel
TRACK MACHINES
- 7 additional machines requested, bringing the total to 8 on our system
- These will assist with pole replacements and difficult ground conditions
SEC CREWS & CREW SCOUTS
- 25 SEC crews and scouts
- ~80 personnel staged throughout the service area for restoration activity throughout the storm period
MATERIALS & LOGISTICS – To support restoration efforts, we have also:
- Established 2 additional field material staging areas for poles, in addition to our 4 district warehouses
- Prepped and fully stocked our warehouses with essential materials needed for storm response and repairs
ONGOING ASSESSMENT
As forecasts are updated, personnel levels and mutual aid assistance will continue to be re-evaluated, and additional resources will be requested if conditions warrant.
This level of preparation reflects the potential impact of the forecasted storm and our commitment to being ready to serve our members safely. We will continue monitoring conditions and providing updates as the situation evolves.
Stay safe out there and be weather aware!
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1/21/2026 – AM: Winter Storm Preparation Reminder
All eyes are on this weekend as a significant winter storm is expected to impact our region. Forecasts indicate snow, very cold temperatures, and the potential for freezing rain in some areas from Saturday through Sunday. Conditions may vary across our 18 counties.
How Members Can Prepare Now
With predicted extreme winter weather conditions, preparation now can make a big difference.
Stay Informed
- Monitor local weather updates
- Follow your cooperative updates at www.sec.coop
Power & Communication
- Fully charge cell phones, battery packs, and laptops
- Keep car chargers available as a backup
- Set phones to low-power mode if outages occur
- Check generator fuel supply levels
Lighting & Safety
- Have flashlights ready in main living areas
- Keep extra batteries on hand
- Avoid candles when possible, to reduce fire risk
Food & Water
- It is recommended to store at least one gallon of water per person per day
- Stock easy-to-prepare foods that don’t require cooking
- Keep a manual can opener available
- Limit the amount of time refrigerators and freezers are opened
Heating & Cold Weather Safety
- Close blinds and curtains to help retain heat
- Block drafts around doors and windows
- Keep interior doors closed to retain warmth in main living areas
Personal & Family Readiness
- Have extra blankets, warm clothing, gloves, and hats accessible
- Keep medications and medical equipment fully charged
- Make plans for anyone who relies on electricity for medical needs
- Have an emergency kit ready
Pets, Livestock & Neighbors
- Bring pets indoors and ensure adequate food and water
- Prepare shelter and water access for livestock
- Check on elderly neighbors or those who may need assistance
Travel & Vehicles
- Avoid travel during heavy snow or ice if possible
- Keep vehicles fueled and stocked with emergency supplies
Safety is our top priority. We’ll continue to share updates as the forecast becomes clearer.
Please stay weather-aware and take time now to prepare.
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1/20/2026: We’re monitoring a winter weather system that could impact our area this weekend, with snow possible beginning Saturday afternoon and continuing into Sunday.
According to 12 On Your Side Weather, snow may develop late Saturday, with the bulk of accumulation expected on Sunday.
Our crews are actively preparing for the potential winter weather, and we encourage members to take steps now to be prepared.
Prepare now:
Charge phones, battery packs, and medical devices
Keep blankets, warm clothing, and a flashlight in your vehicle
Allow extra travel time and monitor road conditions
Check in on neighbors who may need assistance
We’ll continue to share updates as the forecast becomes clearer. Stay safe and weather-aware.
