With heavy amounts of snowfall hitting the Spring River area Feb. 15, energy companies across the state are urging users to conserve power.
“North Arkansas Electric Cooperative requests members limits nonessential electricity usage immediately to ensure service is not interrupted,” North East Arkansas Electric Cooperative [NEAC] stated in a press release.
“Due to the extremely cold weather and the unusually high requirement for electricity, electric cooperatives and other electric utilities across Arkansas and surrounding states have reached a point where electricity demand has nearly exceeded the capacity.”
The release goes on to request all non-essential appliances not be used.
“Members should limit use of non-essential electricity and appliances, especially electric water heaters, clothes dryers and dishwashers, and turn heating thermostats to lower settings,” the release said.
“Voluntary cooperation is essential. If voluntary reductions are not sufficient to maintain continuity of service, it may be necessary to begin interruption of electric service to specific areas for limited time periods. NAEC does not yet anticipate that type of rotating curtailments will be necessary.”
Additionally, authorities are requesting residents stay home if at all possible.
According to Sharp County Sheriff Mark Counts, roadways are still covered with snow and although the highway department is working to clear the roads, the rate at which it is falling is posing a challenge.
“I’ve been out driving the roads today and everything is still covered. The highway department is out working but [there is] just so much snow is falling,” Counts said.
Counts requested residents stay home if at all possible.
“If people don’t have to be out, stay home. We have had several people get stuck or slide off the road,” Counts said. “If anyone needs anything they can contact the Sharp County Dispatch.”
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