Summer Power Outages: What New Yorkers Need to Know

Losing power in the summer really stinks. No fans, no air conditioning, and your food can go bad. Yeah, no thanks. A recent study looked at which states get hit hardest by summer power outages and how long they last. That way, New Yorkers can know of what to expect when the heat cranks up.

Michigan and Texas Are Struggling Big Time

Michigan tops the list with the most major summer blackouts, happening over 12,000 times a year. That adds up to more than 34,000 hours without power every summer. Texas isn't far behind with fewer outages but much longer blackout times, with over 35,000 hours a year. .

What’s Going On in New York?

Here in New York, we had 873 major outages during the summer period last year and we have about 4,000 hours without power on average each year. That is fewer outages than some places, but when the power does go out, it can last a decent amount of time.

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Looking Around the Neighborhood

Florida does not get hit as often, but their blackouts last a long time, about 18,000 hours yearly. Maryland, on the other hand, has a many more outages, but they are usually quick and do not last long.

Midwest and South Feel It the Worst

The Midwest and South get hit the hardest in both frequency and long-lasting outages. Alabama and Louisiana do not get as many blackouts but when they do, they tend to be pretty long. The West Coast and Northeast, including New York, usually have fewer outages and shorter ones. However it probably doesn't feel like that for us.

Heads Up for New Yorkers

Charge your devices, get some flashlights, and maybe think about a backup plan like a generator. Summer power outages are not fun, so being prepared can save you a big-time headache. New York is not the worst when it comes to summer blackouts, but it is not totally safe either. So be ready, and hopefully your lights will stay on when it gets hot this summer.