FirstEnergy Prepares for Winter Weather with New Technology to Prevent Tree-Related Power Outages
TOLEDO, Ohio — FirstEnergy crews are gearing up for an expected wintry weather mix that could impact the region Wednesday night into Thursday. With snow and ice in the forecast, the utility company is deploying new tools to predict and reduce tree-related power outages before they occur. The initiative comes as part of a larger effort to ensure reliable service during severe weather conditions.
Heavy snow or ice accumulation on tree branches poses a significant risk to both public safety and property. As the added weight can cause branches to snap, FirstEnergy aims to stay ahead of potential issues by addressing tree hazards before storms strike.
“Our preparations are ongoing throughout the year,” said Hannah Catlett, spokesperson for FirstEnergy Corp. “From equipment inspections to tree trimming, we’re making sure our crews are ready to respond if needed.”
According to Catlett, trees are one of the leading causes of power outages in the region. In response, FirstEnergy has invested in a new technology designed to predict where trees are most likely to cause damage to the electric system.
The tool, called the Advanced Vegetation Analytics Tool (AVAT), leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze a variety of data sources. The system pulls information from soil conditions, weather patterns, historical outage data, high-resolution aerial photos, and more. This data allows FirstEnergy to assess potential risks and prioritize areas where tree-related outages are more likely to occur.
Jacob Wolfgang, a forester with FirstEnergy, explained that the tool combines local expertise with a broader, data-driven view. “This combines the knowledge of our vegetation staff at the local level with a global picture of what our conditions are in terms of where we may be more likely to experience outages,” Wolfgang said. “The goal is to ensure that we address problematic trees before they cause disruptions.”
By identifying patterns and assessing the likelihood of outages, AVAT helps the company make informed decisions about where to focus their efforts. The tool not only highlights areas with the highest risk for tree-related outages but also provides insight into how many customers might be affected if an outage occurs.
While FirstEnergy primarily focuses on trees located within the right of way, the company encourages residents to report any trees they believe could be a hazard to the power lines. “If you have a tree you think may be an issue, we urge you to reach out to us and report it,” Catlett said.
As winter weather approaches, FirstEnergy continues to prioritize safety and reliability, urging residents to stay vigilant. If a downed power line is spotted, they remind the public to stay clear of the area, avoid touching the line, and call 9-1-1 immediately.
With its combination of cutting-edge technology and proactive planning, FirstEnergy is taking significant steps to minimize the impact of winter storms on the community and its power infrastructure.
