NPPD crews help restore power in the south

COLUMBUS -- Mike Krieger of McCook is among 12 line technicians from Nebraska Public Power District who left Monday morning to assist with anticipated power restoration needs caused by Hurricane Katrina.

In preparation for the storm, Entergy Corp., which serves many of the areas in the storm's path, requested emergency assistance from NPPD crews on Saturday, more than a day before the storm reached land.

The NPPD line crews took two digger derrick trucks, three small bucket trucks and a pickup and planned to make it as far as Fort Smith, Ark., Monday night.

NPPD has been in contact with Entergy's storm command center and will be provided with details of a more formal staging area soon.

Others making the trip include: Dennis Thelen, Jamie Becker, Shawn Anderson and Ben Baldwin of Norfolk; Ray Blessin of Ogallala; Jay Thies of Rushville; Mike Moser and Todd Bailey of York; Bill Johnson of Milford; and Brian Caba and T.J. Rutledge of Plattsmouth.

The men are expected to work a two-week stint. Should further assistance be needed, NPPD anticipates sending another 12 to replenish the team.

Initial estimates from utility sources indicate power restoration efforts from a storm of this magnitude could take up to six weeks or more. NPPD appreciates the efforts of these men and look forward to their safe arrival back home.