ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As of 5 p.m. ET today, Duke Energy Florida's crews restored power for over 407,000 customers, while nearly 285,000 continue to experience outages as a result of the unprecedented destruction caused by Hurricane Helene.

With 8,000 personnel, and many working through the night, the company has also established estimated times of restoration for Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas and Sumter. Approximately 95% of these customers are expected to be restored by 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 29, and some customers will be restored earlier.

It is important to note, however, that adverse weather conditions continue to impede restoration in the impacted areas. Moreover, customers who experienced extensive damage or flooding may require additional time for restoration and some should be prepared for extended outages. Updates will be communicated to customers as soon as possible.

"Several areas of the state were severely devastated by this storm, so it's safe to say power restoration is going to be a multi-day event. Even as flooding recedes, the debris left behind is also proving to be a significant challenge," said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy Florida storm director. "We appreciate our customers' patience and thank our emergency management officials and first responders for all their hard work."

Flood and meter box damage 

For customers whose home or business is flooded, Duke Energy cannot reconnect power until the electrical system has been inspected by a licensed electrician. If there is damage, an electrician will need to make repairs and obtain verification from the local building inspection authority before power can be restored.

If the meter box is pulled away from a customer's house or mobile home service pole and power is not being received, the homeowner is responsible for contacting an electrician to reattach the meter box and/or provide a permanent fix. In some instances, an electrical inspection may be required by the county before Duke Energy can reconnect service. An electrician can advise customers on next steps.

Downed power lines are hazardous 

Duke Energy reminds customers and the public to stay away from downed power lines that have fallen or are sagging, and to consider all power lines – and trees, limbs or anything in contact with power lines – energized and dangerous.

If a power line falls across a vehicle you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, try to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.