JCP&L Preps For Outages As Severe Storms Threaten Hackettstown Area

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — Jersey Central Power & Light is bracing for a weather system bringing heavy rain, high winds and potential thunderstorms across its New Jersey service area, with the utility lining up extra crews ahead of severe storms expected Thursday evening.

The storm threat comes as the hottest heat indices of the year — topping out near 100 degrees in most areas — collide with an approaching system, according to the National Weather Service. Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected in the late afternoon and evening Thursday, with damaging winds as the main threat.

"Storms could produce damaging wind gusts and brief heavy downpours, as well as hail up to quarter-size. Main timing will be between 5 to 11 p.m.," the weather service said.

In North Jersey, Thursday's high will be near 95 with heat index values up to 103, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. More showers and storms are likely after 5 p.m. Friday, when highs near 96 will push the heat index as high as 104, before a cold front clears the way for a sunny, far less humid weekend with highs near 90.

JCP&L and FirstEnergy meteorologists are closely monitoring conditions, and crews are prepared to respond as conditions develop, the company said. Ahead of the storm, JCP&L said it has:

• Requested additional contractors, mutual aid line crews and forestry crews

• Implemented 16-hour staggered shifts for 24-hour coverage

• Maintained coordination with emergency management, state and local officials, and regulators

The utility encourages customers to prepare for possible outages:

• Charge phones and backup batteries, and have flashlights, car chargers, bottled water, nonperishable food and medications ready

• Never use gas stoves, kerosene heaters, open flames or generators indoors or in garages due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

• Well water and septic users should store bottled water or fill bathtubs in advance

JCP&L also reminded customers to stay away from downed or sagging power lines — always assuming they are energized — and to report outages and hazards immediately. Families with medical needs or elderly members should plan alternate shelter options in case of extended outages.

Customers can subscribe to email and text alerts for weather updates and outage notifications at firstenergycorp.com/connect, and can follow JCP&L on Facebook at facebook.com/JCPandL or online at jcp-l.com.

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