For immediate release — August 28, 2023
KISSIMMEE — In anticipation of a potential impact from Tropical Storm Idalia, Kissimmee Utility Authority has activated its Emergency Operations Plan.
The utility is currently operating at Alert Level 3 and will advance to Alert Level 4 once the storm is within 24 hours of impacting its 85-square mile service territory in Osceola County.
Depending on its path, Idalia may be capable of causing widespread power outages. In addition, restoration may be hampered by flooding, downed trees, high winds or other obstacles. Once wind speeds reach 45 mph or more, crews can no longer safely restore power. KUA crews are prepared to work long hours after the storm passes, conducting their damage assessment analysis and restoring service to customers as quickly and as safely as possible.
Customers who experience a power outage can report it quickly by texting the word “out,” to 877-582-7700. This is the fastest way to notify KUA about an outage.
Additionally, electric vehicle owners can utilize KUA’s vast network of electric vehicle chargers available throughout KUA’s service territory, should power go out. Visit kua.com/ev for a map of KUA’s electric vehicle chargers and information about how to use them.
After severe weather, KUA crews restore power by repairing transmission lines, substations and main distribution lines. Once the main power lines are repaired, crews turn their attention to individual customer outages. KUA’s real-time outage map can be viewed at kua.com/map.
To assist residents with storm preparations, KUA has developed a comprehensive storm preparedness guide. The 40-page handbook can be downloaded from the utility’s website at kua.com/storm.
Kissimmee Utility Authority is asking that customers take the following safety precautions:
- Disconnect sensitive electrical equipment in the event of a surge when power is restored.
- Consider turning your refrigerator or freezer to its coldest setting to keep your food fresh longer should power go out.
- Keep your hurricane kit handy.
- If you own a swimming pool, turn off all pumps and filters. If you don’t, water from the approaching storm can damage them.
- Never rely on candles, kerosene lamps, or other flammable lighting materials. Use glow sticks, flashlights, or battery-powered lamps instead.
- Complete any laundry or other household chores to ensure your family will be more comfortable if you have to spend time at home without electricity.
- If you own a generator, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Place generators at least 20 feet away from your home, downwind away from open doors, windows, eaves, and vents.
- Before using your generator, disconnect your source of power.
- Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires or anything that comes in contact with them. A seemingly harmless wire may still be energized. Also, stay away from puddles where downed lines may have landed.
- Please call KUA only to report downed power lines. For emergencies, call 911.
Founded in 1901, KUA is Florida’s sixth largest community-owned utility powering 90,000 customers in Osceola County, Florida. For more information, visit www.kua.com.
###