OG&E crews leave for Louisiana ahead of Hurricane Francine

SHAWNEE, Okla. ( KFOR ) – Crews with Oklahoma Gas and Electric left for Louisiana on Wednesday ahead of Hurricane Francine.

According to OG&E, the storm is predicted to be a Category 1 hurricane with up to 100 mph winds by Wednesday afternoon or evening.

At around 6 a.m. Wednesday morning, a fleet of trucks carrying line crews and support personnel left Shawnee for Louisiana. Crews from Oklahoma City, Enid, Ardmore, Muskogee, Kellyville and Fort Smith, Arkansas will be there for up to two weeks helping with power restoration.

“Our crews will arrive ready to assist in repairs and power restoration throughout affected areas of Louisiana,” said Chad Guthrie, OG&E Director of Distribution Construction. “Mutual assistance requests allow us to support other electric companies across the nation as a trusted partner while working efficiently to help our neighbors in need.”

Officials say Entergy Louisiana asked for assistance and is warning customers on the Gulf Coast of possible power outages, specifically in south and southeast Louisiana, where the storm is expected to hit the hardest.

“At OG&E, we know the gravity and impact severe weather can have on a community and we understand the vital need for people to have electricity,” said Andrea Dennis, OG&E Vice President of Transmission & Distribution Operations. “Our crews are prepared to react and provide support and expertise to help restore power to those impacted by the hurricane. We are humbled by our crews and all of the restoration personnel who are taking time away from their families to fulfill this important duty and are honored to work alongside other electric companies to provide such a meaningful service.”

In July, OG&E also helped with power restoration in south Texas following Hurricane Beryl.

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