Downed trees, closed roads slow storm power restoration

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Crews were working in New Jersey Wednesday to restore electricity to 26,127 homes and businesses that lost service during a snowstorm, but it may be late Friday night before all have their power back, Jersey Central Power & Light said.

Most of the customers were in Sussex County, in the northwest portion of the state, where more than a foot of snow fell between Sunday and Monday. That number was down from 72,600 statewide who were affected as heavy, wet snow and ice fell downed trees and power lines over the region.

“”We have hundreds of boots on the ground, including contractors, JCP&L crews from our central service area and FirstEnergy sister utilities, and PSE&G crews, “the utility said in a Facebook post. “”They will be working through the night and 24/7 until all customers are restored.”

The utility said significant tree damage and road closures were slowing restoration efforts, mainly in Newton and Andover.

The county opened shelters at the Sussex County Technical School’s McNeice Auditorium in Sparta and at the Vernon Township Senior Center,.