Severe weather may bring power outages to the metro-east. Here’s how to report them
St. Louis meteorologists forecast possible hail and tornadoes in the metro area Wednesday. With those severe weather conditions often comes power outages, and reporting them as soon as possible is important.
Here’s how to report an outage in your service area and request fixes.
Reporting to Ameren
When reporting a problem to Ameren Illinois, you’ll first be asked whether you have seen downed power lines or smelled an odor of gas. If you have, call 800-755-5000 in Illinois and 800-552-7583 in Missouri.
Do not approach downed lines, and leave the building immediately if you smell gas.
To report a power outage at your home, enter your house number or log in to your Ameren account. Ameren asks you to call the same 800 numbers listed above to report issues with street lights.
You can also check for outages by entering in a house number or checking this map. As of 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, the Ameren map shows 61 Illinois customers and 152 Missouri customers without service.
You can also sign up for outage alerts through your Ameren account.
Information about how Ameren fixes power outages is available online.
You can report power outages using the same process to Ameren Missouri.
What should you do during a power outage?
If you see standing water near appliances or electrical wiring, call an electrician. Also call an electrician if you find any damage to your electric meter outside.
Unplug computers, televisions and other equipment because they may be damaged if a surge occurs during the restoration process.
Stay alert for natural gas odors, and leave the area immediately and call your state’s Ameren number if you smell natural gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise.
To prepare for outages, it can be helpful to use surge protectors, keep a backup alarm with fresh batteries and have an uninterruptible power supply with built-in batteries for your computer.
Are you served by an electric cooperative or other electric provider in the metro-east? Let us know by emailing mhoward@bnd.com.
