Optimum Prepares Network for Hurricane Erin

NORTH CAROLINA – Optimum has initiated its storm preparedness plan as Hurricane Erin’s path approaches the eastern United States. Optimum operates in several markets where the storm is projected to produce heavy rainfall, including Greenville, Kinston, and New Bern, North Carolina.

The network team works alongside local, state and national officials to monitor the projected path of the storm and stage assets and crew and protect important network facilities to help minimize impact for our customers. 

Our network team conducts the following pre-storm: 

• Weather monitoring: A dedicated team member monitors the weather 24/7 and provides timely updates on any potential network impacts. We also work directly with local, state and federal agencies on the latest forecasts to ensure our network is ready for any scenario. 
• Network Assets: Begin transporting Wi-Fi trailers, charging stations and amplifiers to a safe location in areas that are projected to have storm impacts. 
• Generators/Fuel: Prepare generators and transport fuel tanks from strategically placed locations throughout our footprint to help power necessary materials. Includes placing 500-gallon fuel tanks to be on standby to power generators at critical network facilities. 
• Network Experts: Strategically place field service, construction, outside plant and fiber experts to be on standby for any response scenario. These employees immediately conduct response assessments following any natural disaster to determine damage and decide immediate next steps to begin restoration.
• Call Centers: Prep network call centers to prepare for an influx of service calls and questions.
• Critical Supplies: Transport other critical supplies like PPE, water and more. 

“Connectivity is critical at all times, and especially during storms and other natural disasters,” said Jessica Gebhardt, Vice President, General Manager of Optimum Mid Atlantic. “We encourage our customers to plan by charging devices, saving battery and ensuring you’re enrolled to receive service-related updates. In the event of impact to Optimum’s network, our teams will respond as safely and quickly as possible to support our customers.” 

Steps for Customers to Prepare: 

• Save Battery: Connectivity can be your lifeline in an emergency. Charge cell phones, tablets, and other wireless charging devices. 
• Optimum Alerts: Make sure we have the correct contact information and you're signed up to receive service-related text messages. 
• Social Media: Follow us on X or Facebook for the latest information on storm response in your local area and where free local Wi-Fi and charging stations are available. 
• Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle is filled with a tank of gas. In the event of a power outage, your vehicle can be used for device charging.
• Create a Plan: Mother nature can be unpredictable so do everything you can to be prepared and let others know of your location in case of major emergencies. 

We encourage our customers to please prioritize safety and preparedness for your homes and businesses. We’re continuing to monitor the weather and will provide updates as needed via our newsroom page, customer communications and on social media.