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Major upgrades to power grid help reduce outages ahead of severe weather, Ameren Missouri says

The utility company says they've made continuous upgrades to its smart energy plan with new utility poles and stronger power lines.

MISSOURI, USA — More than 200 miles of upgraded power lines, 1,500 power-outage-reducing smart switches and numerous new utility poles are just some of Ameren Missouri's infrastructure updates the company has made in the St. Louis metro area to keep electricity running during severe storms.

The upgrades are part of the company's smart energy plan, adding on to Ameren's 97 substations throughout the region.

The upgrades helped keep the power on for around 55,000 people in the St. Louis metro area during last summer's storms between June 30 and Aug. 2, Ameren said

Some things to do for severe storms preparation:

  • Create a plan of seeking shelter in the event of severe weather in the most interior room without windows.
  • Keep a storm kit with flashlights, water, non-perishable foods and medicine. 
  • Keep phones charged and have a weather radio on hand. 
  • Stay away from downed power lines or poles especially near pools of water, and shrubs. 
  • In the event of a power outage Missouri customers can call 800-552-7583 and Illinois customers can call 800-755-5000.
  • Ameren recommends people update their online account to enroll in alerts for power outages or crews working nearby. 

The St. Louis County Department of Transportation and Public Works said they'll also have crews on standby 24/7 to respond to downed trees and flooded roadways.

Ameren recommends people update their online account to enroll in alerts for power outages or crews working nearby. Click here to learn more.

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