4 P.M. - RG&E Announces Estimated Time of Restoration Following Weekend Storm
Most customers to have power back by 11 p.m. Sunday; Remainder to have service restored by 5 p.m. Monday
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — May 24, 2026, 4:00 p.m. — Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) crews continue their work to restore power and assess damage across the area as a result of this weekend’s heavy rain and wind. More than 1,000 customers are currently without power in RG&E’s Central Division, which includes Monroe and Orleans Counties. Since Saturday, more than 11,000 customers were affected.
Most customers with outages can expect the power to return by 11 p.m. on Sunday. Full restoration is expected by 5 p.m. on Monday. Many outages are located in rear lots which are difficult for crews to access and require specialized equipment. The Company has secured the necessary equipment, but these locations take additional time to reach and complete restoration safely. Additionally, several locations have sustained significant tree damage. Crews are working to clear debris so line crews can safely access the area, complete repairs, and restore service.
Additional crews have been mobilized to expedite the response efforts. Line and tree crews remain active and ready to respond to any weather-related issues with bucket trucks, auger trucks, wood chippers, dump trucks, and backhoes.
The Company is urging customers to avoid areas with downed trees and wires. RG&E is coordinating response efforts with state and local emergency management authorities. RG&E will continue to provide updates throughout the event to the general public on the company’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and X). The Company also offers customers the following reminders to stay safe if power outages occur.
Outage Information:
- Sign up for Outage Alerts to receive updates automatically by phone, text or e-mail as the Companies updates the status of the restoration process in their area. Customers can sign up for outage alerts by visiting here for RG&E.
- Customers can use the RG&E mobile app to report and check the status of outages. To download the application, customers should search “Avangrid” in the Apple or Android app stores and select “RG&E.” The application is free to download.
- For all information related to outages, please visit Outage Central.
Stay Away from Downed Wires:
- Stay at least 30 feet from a downed power line.
- If a downed wire comes in contact with your vehicle, stay inside and wait for help. If you must get out because of fire or other danger, jump clear of the vehicle to avoid any contact with the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with your feet together and hop with feet together or shuffle away; don’t run or stride.
- RG&E customers should call 1.800.743.1701 to report downed power lines or other hazardous situations.
During a Power Interruption:
- Contact neighbors to see if their power is off. A loss of power may be the result of a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker.
- To report a power interruption, contact RG&E at 1.800.743.1701.
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Most food will last 24 hours if you minimize the opening of refrigerator and freezer doors.
Power Restoration Priorities:
The companies’ first priorities are to respond to reports of downed power lines to keep the public safe. RG&E customers are asked to call 1.800.743.1701 to report downed wires. Once this vital public safety work is complete, the Company will:
- Assess the damage to the electricity delivery system.
- Develop a detailed restoration plan.
- Make repairs as quickly as possible.
For additional information, including storm preparation tips, storm safety information, tornado preparedness, generator safety information, restoration priorities and emergency resources, visit Outage Central at rge.com and on the Company’s social media pages:
- Facebook: @RochGandE
- X: @RGandE
- Instagram: @rochestergasandelectric
Media Contact:
Michael Baggerman
mbaggerman@nyseg.com
716.368.1284