November 27, 2018

Some of the damage caused by the tornado’s 100 mph wind.

A Potomac Edison customer thanked service and support personnel for repairing damage caused by a rare tornado in Mount Airy, Md.

“I have been living in Mount Airy since 1994,” emailed the customer. “During these years, Potomac Edison has had to deal with many, many types of inclement weather situations. But none was quite as fierce as the recent tornado-microburst that caused such extensive damage. I would like to extend my appreciation and thanks to all the terrific technicians, engineers and work crews who restored power so quickly, despite extensive downed trees, snapped poles and general devastation in the region. We are truly fortunate to have these dedicated professionals serve our community so well.”

With wind speed reaching 100 mph, the twister broke more than 30 utility poles, bringing down power lines and other electrical equipment in the Mount Airy area. Crews from Potomac Edison’s Mount Airy, Frederick, Thurmont, Williamsport, Martinsburg, Cumberland and Oakland service centers worked around the clock to restore power to more than 3,000 customers affected by the severe weather. Mon Power personnel and FEU contractors assisted with the repairs.

“Our employees responded quickly and safely to restore the customers impacted by the tornado,” says Don McGettigan, director, Operations Services, Potomac Edison. “We couldn’t be prouder of their commitment to our customers and to working safely.”

According to the National Weather Service, several tornadoes – including the Mount Airy one – were the first to touch down in November in Maryland in eight years.