As Hurricane Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast, New River Light and Power (NRLP) is monitoring forecasts and preparing for potential impacts in the High Country this weekend. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected across the Boone area, increasing the risk of localized flooding, downed trees and power outages.
Periods of heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected across the Boone area Saturday and Sunday, October 10–11. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch and Wind Advisory for the area. Saturated ground and strong winds may contribute to downed trees and power lines, while heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding.
NRLP is actively monitoring forecasts and preparing for potential impacts. Crews are ready to respond if outages occur, and the utility encourages customers to take a few simple steps now to prepare.
Prepare for Possible Power Outages
Simple preparations can help keep you safe and comfortable during weather-related service disruptions. Recommended outage preparation tips include:
- Keep flashlights and extra batteries readily available.
- Have drinking water and nonperishable food for household members and pets.
- Keep a NOAA weather radio and basic first aid kit accessible.
- Charge phones, medical devices and backup batteries ahead of the storm.
- Secure loose outdoor items that could become hazardous in high winds.
- Keep important medications and other essential supplies readily available.
Households that rely on oxygen or other medical equipment requiring electricity should have a backup power source or alternative plan in place. While NRLP works to restore service as quickly and safely as possible, restoration times cannot be guaranteed during outages.
Stay Safe During Severe Weather
Safety remains a top priority. Heavy rain and gusty winds can create hazardous conditions, even after the worst of the weather has passed.
- Stay away from downed power lines and always assume any fallen line is energized.
- Never approach or attempt to move trees, branches or other objects in contact with power lines.
- Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas. Never drive around barricades.
- If using a portable generator, operate it outdoors and away from windows, doors and vents. Never connect a generator directly to household wiring without an approved transfer switch.
Downed power lines should be reported to NRLP at 828-264-3671, or to 911 if there is immediate danger.
Know How to Report an Outage and Get Updates
NRLP uses Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) to monitor outages in real time. While customer outage reports are not always required, they are especially important in urgent situations such as a vehicle striking a utility pole, a pole on fire or a downed power line.
To report an outage during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., customers should call 828-264-3671, option 2, or email NRLP-CSR@appstate.edu.
After business hours, including weekends, customers should call 828-264-3671, option 2, then option 9. Calls are forwarded to App State Police for dispatching, ensuring timely receipt of after-hours outage reports.
Customers can check current outage status at nrlp.appstate.edu. NRLP will also share updates regarding major outages and restoration efforts on Facebook, Instagram and X.
NRLP encourages customers to monitor local weather forecasts, follow guidance from emergency management officials and take precautions as conditions develop throughout the weekend.
Additional preparedness information is available through the NRLP Resource Center and Ready.gov.