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Memphis Light, Gas and Water CEO Doug McGowen confirms power restoration progress following destructive storm

Memphis Light, Gas and Water CEO Doug McGowen stated that power restoration efforts are underway following a destructive storm on Saturday evening. The storm, which was the 7th most destructive in the utility's history by outage minutes, left thousands of residents without electricity, particularly in the Hickory Hill area. McGowen noted that while more than 50 schools were initially without power, the number of remaining outages has steadily declined. Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond explained that classes were canceled on Monday due to transportation and food supply concerns. While most schools will resume normal schedules on Tuesday, nearly 20 schools will remain closed due to ongoing power issues. MLGW has deployed 600 employees and contractors to work on the power lines. The utility established an Emergency Preparedness Information Center at the Hickory Hill Community Center to provide residents with resources such as snacks, water, and charging stations.

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