San Juan, Puerto Rico, September 17, 2022 – Given the severity of Tropical Storm Fiona, which according to the National Weather Service is forecasted to bring up to 16 inches of rain and hurricane force winds, significant and widespread service interruptions are expected across Puerto Rico. LUMA utility crews are actively responding to current storm-related service interruptions, and, given the severity of the storm, are releasing a step-by-step explanation of how power is being restored during this major event.
LUMA’s restoration strategies during Tropical Storm Fiona will follow the guidelines of its Emergency Response Plan, is based on utility-standard service restoration protocols during large events and is based on guidance from FEMA and other local and federal governmental agencies.
“Tropical Storm Fiona is already having a serious impact on Puerto Rico, and large-scale power outages are anticipated over the coming hours. We want our customers to be prepared for service interruptions and know that LUMA is following emergency protocols for service restoration which, for example, prioritizes the restoration of critical and essential services. While losing power for any customer is incredibly frustrating, we ask our customers for their patience and support as our LUMA teams assess the storm damage, contend with difficult conditions, and continue to respond to a very serious storm that will lead more widespread loss of power,” said Abner Gómez, Public Safety Manager of LUMA.
Restoration Protocol
As part of its Emergency Response Plan, which is compliant with the FEMA National Incident Management System and uses the Incident Command Structure (ICS), LUMA is responding to power outages based on specific guidelines and as quickly and safely as possible. The restoration protocol during such emergency events is as follows:
Restoration Protocol
Throughout the duration of the storm and restoration efforts, LUMA is and will continue coordinating with the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau (PREMB), the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), FEMA, the U.S. Department of Energy Support Function #12 and other government agencies to coordinate a unified response.
LUMA, through its parent companies, has already mobilized resources to assist in storm response, based on the severity of the storm. Should additional response resources be required, LUMA is already in direct communication with mutual aid providers including the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (Carilec), the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and the American Public Power Association (APPA) who can assist with restoration efforts.
Customer Safety Messages
LUMA is presently communicating through a number of channels, including radio and social media, what customers must do to keep themselves and their families safe. Among the actions LUMA is highlighting include:
- Stay away from any downed power lines. We urge the public to put their safety first. Call us immediately at 1-844-888-5862 (LUMA) to report any downed lines or electrical emergencies that require immediate attention. Remember to stay away from any low hanging or downed power lines.
- Lifeline Residential Services customers that require electrical medical equipment should activate emergency plans in anticipation of possible service interruptions.
- During the storm, please stay inside your home and away from windows.
- If you have to drive, be aware that roads may be flooded.
- Keep flashlights, battery-operated radios, extra batteries, bottled water and non-perishable food items at hand.
- Secure medications and a first-aid kit.
- Protect important identification documents such as passports, Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, birth certificates, insurance policies and any other important documents.
- Turn off power switches and unplug electronic equipment such as televisions and computers.
- If you own a generator, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Ensure the generator is in a well-ventilated area.
- If you experience an outage, please report it using the Mi LUMA app or website available at miluma.lumapr.com.
Updates on Storm and Storm Response
LUMA will be communicating about its emergency preparations, storm response, and the impact the storm has on the electric system through the news media and its social media channels. Among the critical resources LUMA will provide updates include the following:
- LUMA website: lumapr.com
- Twitter: twitter.com/lumaenergypr
- Facebook: facebook.com/lumapuertorico
- LUMA Outage Reporting Map: miluma.lumapr.com/outages/outageMap
- Mi LUMA app notifications
- Public safety advertisements
About LUMA
LUMA is a Puerto Rican company that, since June 1, 2021, operates and manages the electric power transmission and distribution system in Puerto Rico. LUMA is a company driven by a mission to transform the electrical transmission and distribution system to provide all Puerto Ricans with the reliable, resilient, cleaner, and affordable electrical grid they deserve. As a customer-centric company, LUMA’s entire workforce of more than 3,000 employees is focused on safely delivering an exceptional customer service experience to its 1.5 million customers.
