PINEVILLE, La. – (6 p.m.) – Strong storms and reports of tornadic activity across central Louisiana have left over 9,000 Cleco customers without power.

“Our crews are working safely and efficiently to tackle the damage left behind by the storms that moved across central Louisiana,” said James Lass, general manager of distribution operations and emergency management.  “In addition to local Cleco crews, we’ve mobilized crews from across the state to help assess damage, clear and clean debris, as well as replace broken poles, cross arms and downed wire.”

Cleco expects that some of the outages will last overnight and asks that customers with medical needs and small children make the necessary arrangements for tonight.

“We appreciate our customers’ patience as crews work safely and efficiently to restore power,” said Lass.

For storm and restoration updates, follow Cleco on Facebook at @ClecoPower.