MEMPHIS, Tenn. — MLGW released a statement Tuesday night, February 14 at 8 p.m., confirming that all original power outages that were caused by winter ice storm on February 3, 2022, have now been restored.
Although the completion of restoration efforts came as a Valentine's Day surprise, customers were left in the dark without power, seeking for warmth for twelve long days.
Several Memphians reported that they lodged with family and friends, booked hotels for days on end, and visited local warming centers while MLGW and contracted crews worked to restore power throughout the city.
According to MLGW, the winter ice storm caused severe damage, interrupting power for more than 233,000 MLGW customers.
Outages caused by the 2022 February ice storm broke records, superseding the 281,000 power outages caused by the 1994 ice storm.
The storm goes on record as one of the worst weather events to hit the Mid-South.
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The ice storm also caused several trees to fall, leaving streets and personal property in disarray, in addition to other extensive damage. In a tweet, MLGW advised those who need help with cleanup to contact the Tennessee Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters for assistance. The organization is offering support until February 25.
In a news release, MLGW informed that they will begin addressing newer outages that were not related to the ice storm today, February 15.
In a statement, MLGW President and CEO J.T. Young said that he understands that customers are upset about the extensive power outages.
According to Young, some customers may have experienced an outage within an outage.
"If a customer is off due to an “outage within an outage,” meaning a circuit may have been repaired but more localized damage is causing a problem, the utility may not be aware," Young said.
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MLGW said disconnections for non-payment will be halted until further notice.
MLGW requests that customers continue to report any outages that they experience by calling 901-544-6500.
Customers can check the outage map to locate active outages in their area.