Utility crews from multiple companies have been working since last night to restore power to customers across Marion County, with around 30,000 residents across the area still waiting for their power to be restored as of this afternoon.
Early Friday, Ocala-News.com reported that over 40,000 residents were left without power in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Power outage maps from the local companies all show thousands of customers without power as of 2:45 p.m. on Friday.
According to the maps, just over 4,000 OEU customers are still without power, while SECO is reporting that 1,055 customers are without power. Clay Electric is reporting 7,928 customers are without power and Duke Energy, which serves the highest number of customers in the county, is working to restore power to approximately 17,000 residents.
Throughout Friday, readers have shared photos showing the damage caused by the hurricane, which produced heavy winds and rain throughout the county.
Similarly, Ocala Electric Utility has published several photos showing trees downed on power lines across the community:
To report a power outage, call one of the following numbers:
- Ocala Electric Utility – 352-351-6666
- Duke Energy – 800-228-8485
- SECO – 352-237-4107
- Clay Electric – 888-434-9844
- Withlacoochee River Electric – 352-795-4382
According to the National Weather Service, gusts as high as 40 miles per hour were recorded at the Ocala National Airport.
At its peak, Hurricane Helene had maximum sustained winds of over 140 miles per hour. After making landfall, the hurricane weakened into a tropical storm.
Before the hurricane, power companies staged thousands of workers and trucks to respond to potential outages.
To report damage to the Marion County Property Appraiser, file a report at the Marion County Property Appraiser Damage Assessment website or call 352-368-8300.
Do you have photos of storm debris or damage? Share your photos by contacting us.