A Gulf Power storm restoration team of 81 employees headed to Alabama this morning to assist Alabama Power, following the deadly storms that swept across most of that state last night.

As of 7 a.m., Alabama Power had more than 340,000 customers without power.

Forty-seven line personnel, 16 support staff and 2 vegetation team members will assist Alabama Power in the Tuscaloosa area, heavily damaged by several tornadoes. In addition, Gulf Power is sending a 16-man evaluator team. These employees will help assess the damage and determine equipment needed to restore power. The crews are prepared to work for up to 2 weeks in the Alabama Power region and will assist wherever they are needed.

Gulf Power already has assisted Alabama Power and Georgia Power this winter and spring as an ice storm and numerous thunderstorms knocked out power to customers in those states.

“We’re glad to be able to help our fellow Southern Company utility after this devastating storm,” said Jeff Rogers of Gulf Power. “Our crews are some of the most highly-trained restoration experts in the world. It’s common for utilities to help each other and we’re just glad to be part of the effort.”

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 430,000 customers in 10 counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible energy to very satisfied customers in strong communities. For more information, visit www.gulfpower.com or our Facebook page: Gulf Power Company.