RMLD Utility 'Well Prepared' for Blizzard of 2013

With two or three feet of snow in the forecast this weekend, there’s an excellent chance of power outages throughout the area.

Looking ahead to the start of the storm, Reading Municipal Light Department reported Thursday that it is “well prepared” for the expected blizzard – and that despite the daunting forecast, damage will likely be less than what was seen in Hurricane Sandy.

“Hurricane Sandy and other windstorms during the month of January shook loose limbs off the trees and compromised electrical connections have been repaired.  We do not expect as much tree debris from this storm,” said RMLD Interim General Manager Kevin Sullivan in a statement.

Sullivan reported that RMLD will have staff working overnight Friday, with personnel ranging from line crews and tree crews to customer service specialists and others. On Saturday, crews will be out assessing damage and working to restore power to any affected areas.

“We will also have a town liaison to communicate with the four-town fire and police departments and the DPWs,” added Sullivan.

Customers are also reminded to charge phones and computers before the height of the storm, and to have flashlights and batteries available. The utility company will provide storm updates on its website.

If downed wires are spotted, do not touch them – assume they are live – and call RMLD at 781-944-1340.