This tree fell across East Garfield Street Monday night. Other trees fell across power lines, cutting off electricity for thousands of Kewanee customers. [Photo by Michael Berry]

Ameren Illinois crews have been busy safely restoring power across central and northern Illinois after a severe storm packing high winds knocked out power to nearly 64,000 customers in multiple counties, Monday, July 15.

On Tuesday morning, Ameren reported over 3,000 Kewanee customers were without electricity.

The company activated its Incident Management Team (IMT) at 9:30 p.m. Monday, which will be staffed around-the-clock to coordinate service restoration, logistical support and communication. Storm damage is widespread.

The IMT has determined this to be a multi-day restoration effort, according to an Ameren Illinois news release. 

“Due to the magnitude of the damage, and the threat of continued severe weather, we are projecting 80 percent of the customers impacted by Monday evening’s storm will have their power restored by Wednesday at 10 p.m.,” the release said. “As assessments continue, customers will be notified of their specific restoration time once established. Crews are working as quickly and safely as possible to bring power back to customers.”

Ameren Illinois resources from lesser impacted areas including some from Ameren Missouri and contractor crews will be deployed to impacted areas on Tuesday to assist with damage assessment and restoration efforts.

As of 10:30 a.m., power had been restored to nearly 27,000 customers. Approximately 37,000 customers remained without power. 

The news release reminded customers:

— Report outages by using a mobile app, logging onto their account at AmerenIllinois.com, or by calling 1.800.755.5000.

— To ensure Ameren Illinois can provide customers with the latest information, we must have the customer’s correct phone number and email address. Encourage customers to log in to their Ameren Illinois account to ensure your contact information is correct. 

— Sign up for alerts. Text REG to AMEREN (263736) to start or visit Ameren.com/Alerts.

— Customers can follow Ameren Illinois on Facebook and X to get the latest information on what’s happening with restoration efforts.

“Safety is paramount at Ameren Illinois” the release said, “and we encourage our customers to take the following safety precautions:”

— Residents are reminded that downed electrical wires could be energized and dangerous. Stay away from brush, downed trees and limbs and any debris that may conceal downed power lines. Call Ameren Illinois at 1-800-755-5000 to report downed wires.

— If using a portable generator, keep outside and away from doors or windows. 

High Heat Safety

With expected heat and humidity today, Ameren Illinois urges customers who are without power – especially seniors, people with small children, and those with respiratory issues – to find an air-conditioned location today. It is important to check on family members and neighbors to ensure they remain safe.