Georgia Power announced estimated restoration times (ERTs) following Hurricane Michael. As of Thursday evening, Georgia Power had restored power to 255,000 customers, with the more than 4,800 personnel and crews working around the clock.
The ERT for customers who are able to receive electric service in the following areas are expected to be restored by these projected times:
• Bainbridge area by Tuesday, Oct. 16 by 8 p.m.
• Albany area by Monday, Oct. 15 by 8 p.m.
• Americus area by Sunday, Oct. 14 by 10 p.m.
• Macon and Central Georgia area by Sunday, Oct. 14 by 10 p.m.
• Columbus and West Georgia area by Saturday, Oct. 13 by 5 p.m.

While damage assessment began at daybreak Thursday, teams faced challenging conditions such as downed trees and impassible roads that require clearing to continue work. Georgia Power is working with Georgia Emergency Management Agency and local governments to open up access to allow our crews to begin restoration efforts in the hardest hit areas.
Restoration progress since the beginning of the storm has been largely possible thanks to Georgia’s advanced electric system, which allows the company to reroute and restore power even when weather conditions prevent work in the field, as well as early work of crews.
Georgia Power Family Services
Georgia Power Family Services has been activated and volunteers will deploy to areas impacted by Hurricane Michael to help with employee assistance requests. Family Services is supported by employee volunteers who are not needed for storm restoration. If you need assistance, please call 1-888-326-7820. Gulf Power Family Services has already requested assistance, once Georgia Power has assisted their own employees.
Employees are reminded to share the following after the storm safety tips with neighbors, family and friends:
• Watch for downed wires – Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
• Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
• Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. – They could be electrified.
• Avoid chain link fences – They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
• Watch for Georgia Power crews working in the field. – Move over a lane if crews are working on the side of the road. It’s the law in Georgia.
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