Hurricane Dorian

Hurricane Dorian is currently battering the Bahamas and is expected to turn north along the Atlantic Coast. The Governor declared a state of emergency for the entire Commonwealth of Virginia. Now is the time to prepare for this storm. Our region could experience high winds and heavy rain which may cause flooding and power outages. I have outlined a few resources below. You may call my office throughout the storm for assistance at 571-249-4484.

From Dominion's Hurricane Preparedness Guide

• Update the phone number on your Dominion Energy account. Login into Manage Account or call 866-366-4357 to change your phone number. In the event of an outage, this will help you report your outage.
• Review evacuation zones. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has an evacuation zone look up tool to assist you in preparing for hurricanes.
• If a family member uses medical equipment, review emergency plans to relocate if necessary.
• If you own a generator, familiarize yourself with connecting and operating it before a storm arrives.
• Make sure your cars have a full tank of gas and remember to fill extra gas cans for generators.
• Tie down loose items outside or properly store them to prevent extra damage.

Disaster kit items

The National Weather Service recommends creating a basic disaster kit. Store the items in airtight plastic bags and put the entire kit in easy-to-carry containers (plastic bins, duffel bag). A basic kit could include the following items:

• Water: one gallon per person per day (at least a 3 day supply)
• Non-perishable food: canned meats and vegetables, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal, food for infants.
• Battery-powered radio
• Flash light
• First Aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Manual can opener
• Local maps
• Cell phone chargers and extra battery packs

Personal emergency items

Along with the essential items, remember to pack your disaster kit for your individual needs.

• Prescription and non-prescription medications.
• Infant food, bottles, wipes, diapers, etc.
• Food and water for your pet
• Cash
• Important family documents (insurance policies, IDs, bank records)
• Blankets for each person
• Change of clothes
• Matches in water-proof container
• Down time activities (books, games, puzzles).

If you have lost power

During a storm, if you have lost power, always report your outage. Along with reporting your outage:

• Turn off major appliances such as air conditioners, water heaters and stoves.
• Unplug TVs, stereos, microwaves and computers to prevent damage during possible overloads.
• Leave a lamp or light on so you’ll know when power is restored.
• Stay away from any downed lines. Always assume the lines are energized and make sure to report them by calling 866-366-4357. Refer to our Outage FAQs for answers to other common questions.

Additionally, please use the link and the numbers provided below to stay up-to-date on current conditions or to report any power outages:

Dominion Resources Power Outage Line

1-866-366-4357

Dominion Resources Storm Center Outage and
Restoration Updates

NorthernVirginia Outages Map

Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative 
1-888-335-0500


Washington Gas
1-800-752-7520


Columbia Gas
1-800-544-5606

Verizon Wireless
1-800-837-4966

Cox Communications

1-800-961-0027

Also, if you have any problems, you can always contact my office at 571.249.4484.  Stay safe!

More information from Dominion

The months of August through October are traditionally the most active tropical weather months for Dominion Energy’s service territories, and this year is no exception. Hurricane Dorian is currently located about 90 miles off the coast of Florida, slowly moving north, and we continue to carefully track the storm.

Current guidance suggests impacts to the communities we serve in Virginia and North Carolina throughout the day on Friday, so I urge you and your constituents to take the time now to review personal hurricane preparation plans and restock necessary supplies. We expect significant damage in Eastern Virginia and North Carolina; forecasts increasingly suggest impacts in the Richmond area as well. Given the anticipated storm damage, customers should plan for a multi-day outage event.

The attached graphic lists items recommended for inclusion in your emergency preparation kits. Please also bear in mind important safety measures:

• Assume downed wires are energized and stay at least 30 feet away. Call Dominion Energy immediately at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) to report any downed wires.

• If using a portable generator, ensure it is fueled and tested, and carefully review its operating instructions. Note that generators should only be operated outdoors with good ventilation.

As in any outage situation, it is imperative for customers to notify Dominion Energy if they lose power. They can do so either online or by phone at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357). The more information we have about outages, the faster we can diagnose the problem and make needed repairs.

More useful information on steps customers can take to prepare for the storm can be found on our website. Rest assured that Dominion Energy is remaining vigilant and will be prepared to safely and quickly respond for our customers when the need arises.

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