South side of Zanesville may see power restoration Friday, no timeline for gas

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By Jessica Johnston, Assistant News Director

There is currently no timeline for the restorations of both electric and natural gas to affected residences on the south side of Zanesville, although Columbia Gas of Ohio is looking to have power restored by Friday.

While the company is hoping to have power restored to customers tomorrow, the restoration of natural gas services to the area could take several days.

The gas company requested AEP turn the electric off to homes and businesses impacted by the shut off as a precautionary measure. Customers are not being asked to evacuate their homes.

The Red Cross has opened a temporary shelter at North Terrace Church of Christ for anyone affected by the natural gas shut off and power outage.

Columbia Gas of Ohio said the integrity of the company’s natural gas system remains safe. Crews are visiting homes to perform safety inspections.

Once safety inspections are finalized, the company can begin to put gas back into the system, although it’s unclear when that process will begin.

After the restoration, crews will be required to return to affected residences and buildings to relight appliances and do other safety inspections. Columbia Gas personnel said that process could take about 30 minutes per household.

Customers impacted by the shut off should note:

  • An adult must be present at a residence to allow crews to restore services.
  • Columbia Gas is asking people to keep their porch lights on once electric is restored.
  • If people are planning to leave their home, leave contact information on the door or with a neighbor to allow crews to gain access to the home when it is time to restore services.
  • Columbia Gas workers, as well as contractors, carry photo ID badges and will show the badge to customers upon the customer’s request.