Gulf Power is monitoring Tropical Storm Karen and making preparations should the storm affect our area.

“If we have a direct hit from a Category 1 or strong tropical storm, outages could last two to three days," said Jeff Rogers, Corporate Communications manager. “We are making plans to account for all scenarios.”

Line crews are fueling their trucks and warehouses are stocking materials. In addition to Gulf Power crews, about 60 contract line crews and tree trimmer crews are on standby to assist in restoration efforts.

“We are looking at our crew schedules to ensure we have maximum coverage should the storm affect our area,” Rogers said. “We will continue to monitor the storm’s track over the next several days and will make preparations based on the landfall of the storm.”

If the system continues to develop and poses a threat to the area, Gulf Power will activate its storm page at gulfpower.com, with news and information. Check the website, as well as Gulf Power’s Facebook page for updates.

Gulf Power also recently launched an interactive outage map where customers can get real-time information on their smartphone, tablet or computer at gulfpower.com.

The map gives you a quick view of the Northwest Florida area and the ability zoom down to street level. Small triangles show where the power’s out and if you hover over them with your cursor, a pop-up window provides more information, like the estimated time of when the power will be restored.

To view the live online map, go to gulfpower.com. To view a video about how to use the interactive map, click on the “How to Use This Map” button at the top of the interactive map page.

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 eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely provide exceptional customer value by delivering reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity while strengthening our communities. Visit online at GulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”

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