Update 1

JOHNSON CITY — BrightRidge crews and contractors are responding to about 13,165 outages around its service territory as Tropical Storm Helene continues to move through the region. Motorists should avoid travel unless essential at least until the storms blow through as expected by forecaster later this afternoon.

There are numerous reports of downed trees and lines, as well as blown yard items and debris. If you are traveling, please be alert to the many potential hazards, including localized heavy flooding.

In response, BrightRidge has deployed all available crews and contractors.
As always, BrightRidge warns customers to never attempt to touch, handle or move downed power lines.

Instead, immediately contact BrightRidge through the SmartHub mobile and desktop application or phone BrightRidge at 423-952-5000 if you spot infrastructure damage.

Also, persons who have medical device charging considerations should secure additional batteries or develop alternative device charging plans as restoration times cannot be guaranteed in widespread events such as Tropical Storm Helene.