GREENEVILLE, TN – January 22, 2026 – The Greeneville Energy Authority (GEA) is closely monitoring a major winter storm that is expected to impact Greeneville and neighboring Greene County this weekend. In anticipation of potential service disruptions, crews stand ready to respond swiftly and safely as weather conditions permit.
As the storm approaches, GEA is advising residents to prepare effectively. Customers are urged to take several precautionary measures, including:
– Charging phones, battery packs, and medical devices
– Assembling flashlights, batteries, blankets, and warm clothing
– Stocking up on food, water, and necessary medications
– Protecting pipes by allowing faucets to drip when temperatures dip
– Checking in on elderly neighbors and loved ones
– Making plans in advance for medical necessities and ensuring backup options are available
In addition to preparation, GEA emphasizes critical safety reminders regarding generator use during outages. While generators can provide essential temporary power, improper usage poses risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning and serious hazards to line workers. Customers should adhere to the following safety guidelines:
– Always run generators, grills, or propane heaters outdoors and never inside a building or garage.
– Position generators far away from windows and doors to minimize carbon monoxide risks.
– Avoid plugging generators directly into wall outlets to prevent back-feeding electricity, which could endanger utility workers.
As the storm unfolds, GEA will work diligently to restore power as quickly as possible, though delays may occur due to icy and treacherous road conditions. The utility is committed to keeping the public informed with timely updates on restoration efforts and encourages residents to stay away from active work areas for the safety of both the crews and the general public.
Residents can stay updated on the situation and report outages through the GEA SmartHub app or by calling 423-636-6200. By taking preparatory measures and staying informed, the community can work together to navigate the impact of the winter storm safely.