More than 85% of Dominion Energy customers have power restored after winter storm

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Power has been restored to more than 85% of the tens of thousands of Dominion Energy customers who lost power during the weekend winter storm, as of Monday morning.

In an update shared from Dominion Energy officials on Monday, Jan. 26, crews and operations centers worked throughout Sunday, Jan. 25, and overnight to restore power to the 48,000 affected customers.

However, due to lower-than-forecasted ice accumulation, Dominion Energy customers across the Commonwealth and northeastern North Carolina experienced fewer power outages than initially anticipated.

"While our service territory avoided the worst of yesterday’s storm, strong wind gusts and remaining ice accumulation on trees could cause additional power outages today," said officials in the Monday update. "We encourage our customers to remain prepared by downloading the Dominion Energy mobile app, keeping devices fully charged, and preparing emergency supplies."

Dominion Energy officials said that icy roads and fallen trees are making it difficult to reach some areas of the state, which could lead to longer outages for some customers.

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With extreme cold expected across Central Virginia -- including morning temperatures dropping into the single digits throughout the week, per our StormTracker8 team -- officials said their system is fully prepared to serve "increased demand." According to the update, they previously tested facilities, inspected equipment and completed planned maintenance ahead of the cold snap.

The power outage company also said it is working closely with regional grid operator PJM and peer utilities to ensure the higher power demand is reliably met.

Our StormTracker8 team continues to track these frigid temperatures.

For the most up-to-date weather alerts, click here or visit our StormTracker8 weather page.