Some power will not be restored until after the storm

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Governor Deval Patrick warned Massachusetts residents that power restoration won’t start until the storm ends so people are stocking up and bracing for power outages that could last for several days.

Western Massachusetts Electric Company spokeswoman Priscilla Ress told 22News they plan to respond to any storm damage and related power outages as long as wind speeds are under 40 miles per hour.  In the event winds are higher than that, the bucket trucks are not able to be lifted up to make those repairs safely.

Ress also said Western Massachusetts is anticipating what is labeled as a “Level 2” storm while the eastern part of the state is bracing for a “Level 5” (National Grid’s highest classification).

WMECo has placed all of its employees on high alert and is notifying cities and towns of their plans.

The President and COO of WMECo, Peter Clarke said, “The company is prepared for the adverse weather conditions, including difficult working and driving due to the snow and wind. Safety is our number one priority and crews will respond to any emergencies as quickly and safely as possible.”