Crews in Rockland, Orange counties prepare for winter storm

The utility says they started using spacer cables after Superstorm Sandy. The cables bundles the wires so when a branch hits them, it’s more likely to bounce off than pull them down.

News 12 Staff

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Jan 16, 2022, 4:22 PM

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Updated 1,074 days ago

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Orange and Rockland Utilities say they are prepared for the looming winter storm with crews and new technology to help keep tree limbs off of wires.

The utility says they started using spacer cables after Superstorm Sandy. The cables bundle the wires so when a branch hits them, it’s more likely to bounce off than pull them down.

The tree trimming program and moving wires underground has also help to prepare the utility company for the storm.

Spokesman Mike Donovan says the biggest concerns will be the wind and ice on power lines.

“The weight is extraordinary,” Donovan explains. “It boggles your mind to know how much weight that adds.”

Donovan says contractors from Pennsylvania will be able to help if there are widespread outages.

Deputy Commissioner of Orange County Emergency Management Alan Mack says Martin Luther King, Jr. Day will help to keep people safe at home and off the roads.

MORE: 9 tips to keep you safe on the road and at home during winter weather conditions

Mack says if you don’t have to go out, stay home. If you do have to venture outside, Mack does offer this advice:

“If you have to get on the road, make sure you have a full tank of gas.”

MORE: STORM WATCH: Snow, heavy rain, strong winds to hit the Hudson Valley Sunday evening