Tornadoes, straight-line winds and relentless rain have hit Wisconsin hard this week — and Mother Nature isn’t finished yet. We Energies crews have been working nonstop to ensure customers have the energy they depend on. Now the company is preparing for more severe weather and monitoring flooding concerns into the weekend.

More storms possible

The National Weather Service has issued a warning for additional severe weather in Wisconsin from Friday evening into early Saturday. They are forecasting thunderstorms, damaging winds, hail, flooding and potentially isolated tornadoes.

  • Outages are likely: Strong winds can knock down trees and limbs into power lines and poles. Significant lightning can also cause damage to We Energies equipment.
  • Restoration takes time: Hundreds of crews will be ready to respond to any power outages as soon as it is safe. However, in some areas, restoration may be delayed if damage is severe.
  • Give crews space: Tree damage may prevent We Energies crews from parking on the side of the road when responding to outages. Watch out for utility trucks and emergency responders as you travel.

What you can do right now

  • Make a plan and prepare an emergency kit: This includes charging phones, gathering flashlights and extra batteries, and having a backup plan for necessary medical equipment.
  • Download or update the We Energies app: It is available via Apple Store or Google Play.
  • Confirm We Energies account info: Make sure your contact information is up to date and opt in to receive notifications by text, email, phone or all three.
  • Follow us on social media: We Energies will be sharing updates on Facebook, Instagram and X.

What you can do during the storms

  • Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines and storm debris. Use generators safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Submit outage reports on our website, through our mobile app, or by calling 800-662-4797 and following the automated prompts.

Flooding concerns

Flooding is a concern in several areas across Wisconsin. In the Fox Valley, We Energies is working closely with emergency management officials in communities that are already under mandatory evacuation orders.

In Shiocton, New London and Fremont crews are temporarily disconnecting natural gas service to homes and businesses to keep customers safe and to prevent longer-term damage to the distribution system. We Energies is reaching out to affected customers directly.

In southeast Wisconsin, natural gas crews are proactively inspecting equipment in communities previously affected by flood damage.

Crews are prepared to respond if unsafe conditions occur in other areas.

What you can do if your home is flooded

There are several safety precautions to follow if floodwater enters your home.

  • If you see or suspect an electric safety hazard, contact We Energies to have your electric service temporarily disconnected.
  • Always remove floodwater using a gas-powered water pump outside your home, or an electric pump connected to an outside line.
  • A qualified contractor must inspect any appliances that have been in floodwater to verify they are safe before We Energies restores natural gas or electric service.