Severe Windstorms Cause Widespread Power Outages and Damage Across the U.S.

Severe windstorms swept across the United States, particularly affecting the Upper Midwest and parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. As of March 13, 2026, over one million customers were reported without power due to high winds, with gusts reaching up to 85 mph (137 km/h) in some areas. The storms have resulted in significant property damage, including downed trees and damaged infrastructure, and have fueled wildfires in Nebraska.

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According to PowerOutage.us, nearly 450,000 customers were without power in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan by mid-afternoon on March 13. Ohio reported the highest number of outages, with approximately 362,389 customers affected. Pennsylvania followed with 262,969 outages, while Michigan reported 122,776. Other states, including Hawaii, also experienced significant outages due to a rare late-winter storm, with 136,981 customers affected.

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The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency reported that high winds contributed to multiple wildfires, including the Morrill County fire, which has burned at least 735 square miles (about 1,880 square kilometers) and resulted in one confirmed death. Firefighters have struggled to contain the fires due to the strong winds. In Ohio, the American Electric Power (AEP) reported that its crews were working around the clock to restore power, with more than 2,700 personnel deployed for damage assessments and repairs.

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Utility companies, including AEP and FirstEnergy, have faced criticism for the scale of the outages, which have been described as the worst since the 2012 derecho. Restoration efforts have been complicated by ongoing high winds, which have made it unsafe for crews to work on downed power lines. FirstEnergy activated its Incident Command Center and requested assistance from neighboring states and Canada to expedite restoration efforts.

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A spokesperson for Duquesne Light Company stated, "Last night, Duquesne Light Company requested mutual assistance from utility crews in neighboring states and Canada to support restoration efforts across the Pittsburgh region." The company emphasized that safety is the priority in restoration efforts, with updates to be provided as conditions allow.

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While reports indicate that over one million customers were without power, the exact number fluctuated throughout the day as restoration efforts progressed. Some sources noted that Franklin County had approximately 50,000 outages, while others reported higher totals. The variability in outage numbers highlights the challenges faced by utility companies in tracking and managing restoration efforts amid severe weather conditions.

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As weather conditions evolve, utility companies are expected to continue restoration efforts. Forecasts indicate that additional severe weather may impact the region, complicating recovery efforts. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about power restoration timelines and to take precautions against potential hazards from downed power lines and debris.

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