O&R declares storm watch as severe thunderstorms, strong winds expected

PEARL RIVER - Orange and Rockland Utilities will mobilize its emergency response workforce this morning as isolated severe thunderstorms and strong wind gusts are expected to impact the region.As the storm system enters the area, sustained winds of 15-30 m.p.h. and gusts of up to 45 m.p.h. are also expected. Utility company officials say this potentially strong system could pose a significant threat to electric service due to high winds, saturated soil, or downed trees and tree limbs – all of which could interfere with the safe, reliable delivery of electric service.                                                                In addition to O&R overhead line crews, tree removal experts, customer service operators, and the rest of O&R emergency response team ready to respond to emergencies throughout the duration of the storms, the company has also secured 100 mutual aid workers standing by to assist in its emergency response.