01/20/10 - 22:20 - Galloping, Winds Hamper Work
EOC On Alert
The Ameren Illinois Utilities continue to make progress toward addressing some of the weather-related outages we experienced today in the northern portion of our service territory. As of approximately 22:20 p.m., there are 8,500 AIU customers that remain out of service state-wide. The majority of those out are AmerenIP customers, with a count of approximately 5,200.
Five warming centers were opened earlier this evening in the communities that are most impacted and include the following northern locations: Aledo Fire Station, Viola Fire Station, Joy Fire Station, New Boston Fire Station, and Keithsburg City Hall. Our community relations personnel have continued to keep in contact with the Mercer County ESDA director where all these warming centers are located. Ameren Illinois is also keeping the local ESDA directors in Knox, Woodford, and Stark Counties updated, as well as reaching out to other communities leaders in an effort to keep all appraised of the progress and outreach efforts.
On a positive note, the winds are expected to subside shortly. This should help with the restoration efforts, which will continue into this evening.
See an example of galloping winds at: http://www.illinoisoutage.com
