Power problems started picking up across the region early Monday evening. What started as only two counties in the WJAC-TV viewing area without power quickly grew to just about every county, and the situation is only expected to worsen overnight.

But Penelec has prepared. It has thousands of crews stationed throughout Pennsylvania, ready to move. The biggest concern is the wind, something western Pennsylvanians are not used to for a prolonged period of time.


"We believe that if the storm is as significant as forecasted so far and does strike the Penelec service territory through Pennsylvania, worst-case scenario is that we could have some customers out anywhere between seven and 10 days," said Scott Surgeoner of First Energy, parent company of Penelec.

First Energy has already brought in more than 7,500 crews in preparation for widespread power outages.

"As the storm moves and as the storm finalizes it's track, we'll continue to move and rearrange those crews to where the damage occurs," said Surgeoner.

Penelec is urging people to be ready to be without power, possibly for a long time.

"Have yourself prepared," said Surgeoner. "Have a flashlight with extra batteries and portable radio with extra batteries."

If the power goes out and the furnace goes with it, Surgeoner said to use blankets and sleeping bags to keep warm.

"Don't try and heat your house with a propane grill or a propane stove," said Surgeoner.

Anything that burns fuel, including a generator, creates toxic carbon monoxide.

Safety, of course, is the No. 1 priority. Penelec reminds people to stay away from downed power lines and instead give them a call at 1-888-LIGHTS.