State Officials Highlight the Importance of Planning for Power Outages National Preparedness Month
September 25, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — Nebraskans have faced several significant weather events this year. Power outages alone have impacted thousands of individuals. When the power goes out unexpectedly, it can disrupt our lives in many ways.
“I deeply appreciate the work of all our emergency management agencies across the state,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “They have been on the front lines as we have dealt with the effects of multiple weather-related disasters in Nebraska this year.”
Governor Pillen signed a proclamation on September 24, marking September as National Preparedness Month. The theme this year is Start a Conversation.
“Preparedness is key to mitigating the impact of severe weather and other unexpected events,” said Gov. Pillen. “I encourage everyone to heed the advice of our state and local experts and take the time to develop the necessary response plan that will keep them and their families safe.”
Gov. Pillen was also joined by emergency management representatives, Major General Craig Strong of the Nebraska National Guard, Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly and James Dukesherer, director of government relations for the Nebraska Rural Electric Association (NREA).
NREA represents 35 rural public power districts and electric cooperatives throughout the state.
“If the electricity goes out, rest assured that your public power electric utility is working to get the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible,” Dukesherer said. “The best policy, however, is to plan ahead so you and your family do not get caught in the dark.”
Since April, NEMA Assistant Director Erv Portis said the estimated impact on public power districts from current and pending disaster declarations is over $82 million.
“Public power has been hit hard in 2024,” Portis said. “Nebraskans should prepare for power outages by having a plan, testing the plan.”
Follow NEMA on social media for more preparedness tips throughout the end of September.