PINEVILLE, La. – Cleco crews have restored power to thousands of customers yet electricity lines in central and south central Louisiana remain icy as temperatures hover around freezing.

“We were hoping for an earlier thaw to help prevent additional power outages, but it appears that is not the case today,” said Anthony Bunting, vice president of customer service and energy delivery. 

Cleco is redirecting crews to the hardest hit areas where new outages are occurring hourly.  “Progress is slow when we restore one line only to have another broken by falling tree limbs,” Bunting said.  “Of course, safety is first, and we hope everyone is cautious of the ice as well as the damage it can cause.  Every time you leave your home, check again for downed lines, and call Cleco if you see one.”

Cleco has approximately 800 line mechanics, tree trimmers, contractors and support staff working to restore power to approximately 15,682 customers statewide.  Customers should report sagging or downed lines to Cleco at 1-800-622-6537.

Current power outages (largest concentration of outages in parentheses):