RG&E Completed Systemwide Restoration Within Two Days After Severe Windstorm
More than 93,000 customers impacted as crews repaired broken poles, downed wires, and extensive tree damage
(Photo captures damage on Big Ridge Rd. in Ogden)
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — June 30, 2026 — Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) restored service to customers following a severe windstorm that moved through the region ahead of Juneteenth and Father’s Day weekend. Much of the area experienced damaging winds, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, causing widespread outages and system damage. The company’s performance under these conditions is a result of ongoing investments in grid reliability, storm response, and field operations.
In total, 93,917 RG&E customers lost power during the storm, with Monroe County experiencing the greatest impact. The storm caused significant damage, including 43 broken poles, 415 downed wires, and widespread tree damage.
“The amount of tree damage that had to be cleared so crews could access our system and assess needed repairs was a significant challenge,” said Margaret Little, Senior Manager of Regional Operations with RG&E’s Electric Line Operations. “It can take time for crews to safely bring equipment into backyards. Our priority is to make affected areas safe, remove hazards, and restore power as quickly as possible.”
One-third of impacted customers had power restored by 4:30 pm on Thursday, June 18. Crews continued working overnight, restoring 75 percent of customers by 3 am Friday, June 19. The remainder of the customers were restored by 10 pm on Saturday, June 20.
“I applaud the repair crews at RG&E for their fast response to restore power for thousands of city residents and businesses in the aftermath of that windstorm,” said Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I am also grateful to RG&E management for their commitment to maintaining an open line of communications and keeping our team in City Hall apprised of their progress. A safe, reliable, and affordable power supply is vital to the health and safety of Rochester’s residents and the success of our employers.”
RG&E had 225-line crews and 30 tree crew personnel working to make repairs and restore power. Additionally, the Company received assistance from contractors and mutual aid from its sister Company New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) to support restoration efforts.
“We are grateful to Monroe County, the City of Rochester, the County Office of Emergency Management, and our first responders for their continued partnership and assistance throughout the restoration effort,” said Patricia Nilsen, CEO of NYSEG and RG&E.
Technology played a key role in the company’s storm response. In some areas, crews were unable to access damage due to rough terrain. Drones were deployed to inspect off-road transmission lines, helping identify damage quickly so repairs could be made.
RG&E remains committed to providing customers with the critical information they need during outages. Public safety is our top priority, followed by assessing damage, developing a detailed restoration plan, and restoring service as quickly as possible.
Media Contact:
Alexis Arnold