North Carolina Wind Gusts Trigger 25,381 Power Outages, With Wilkes, Caldwell and Forsyth Counties Hit Hardest
NORTH CAROLINA — High winds triggered widespread, scattered power outages across North Carolina this morning, with the statewide outage total reaching 25,381 at the time of the update shown. The highest concentration of outages appeared across western and central parts of the state, and utility crews were working to restore service as conditions allowed while winds were expected to gradually decrease through the afternoon and evening.
Outages Concentrated in Several Hard-Hit Counties
A live outage dashboard view highlighted the biggest county-level impacts in North Carolina, with the following areas reporting the highest outage counts:
- Wilkes County: 3,963
- Caldwell County: 2,790
- Forsyth County: 2,674
- Guilford County: 2,441
- Rockingham County: 1,526
- McDowell County: 1,483
- Rutherford County: 1,319
- Orange County: 1,053
- Yadkin County: 855
- Pitt County: 783
The map view also showed smaller outage pockets scattered across other counties, underscoring how wind-driven outages often occur in clusters where trees, branches, or debris interact with power lines.
Duke Energy: Strong Winds Limiting Some Repair Equipment
A spokesperson for Duke Energy said strong winds across the mountain regions and foothills of the Carolinas were causing scattered outages, and crews were restoring power where conditions allowed. The spokesperson also noted that sustained winds in some locations could temporarily limit the use of hydraulic lifts, which are commonly used for elevated line work and repairs.
As winds subside, the company said crews would be able to safely complete repairs using elevated equipment in affected areas.
When Conditions May Improve
The weather note included with the outage update indicated gusty winds should begin decreasing this afternoon and evening, which could help speed restoration efforts—especially in locations where crews are currently restricted by wind safety rules.
Even when winds ease, restoration timelines can still vary based on the type of damage involved, access to downed lines, and whether additional hazards like fallen trees are blocking roads.
What Residents Can Do During Wind-Related Outages
In wind-driven outages, conditions can change quickly. Residents are typically advised to treat any downed wire as energized, avoid touching debris near lines, and report outages through official channels. If you’re using a generator, keep it outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.
What Comes Next
With winds expected to ease later today, utility crews should have a safer window to complete more complex repairs—particularly in areas requiring bucket trucks and lift equipment. Outage totals can fluctuate as restoration progresses and as additional reports come in.
For continued weather-impact updates and major outage situations across the U.S., keep following NapervilleLocal.com and share in the comments whether you’ve experienced wind-related outages in your area and what helped you prepare.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.