RMLD shares storm preparedness tips ahead of possible Sunday-Monday winter storm
(4-minute read)
A potential winter storm is forecasted for Sunday evening into Monday, bringing the possibility of snow, wind, and power outages. The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) is urging residents to monitor local forecasts and review its Storm Preparation Guide to stay safe and informed before, during, and after the storm.
Stay informed during the storm
Residents are encouraged to see RMLD’s official communication channels for the most up-to-date outage information:
Follow RMLD on X (@ReadingLight) for real-time outage updates
Check the RMLD Outage Map to view reported outages, current status, and estimated restoration times
Report an outage only if it is not listed on the outage map or posted on X
Before reporting an outage, residents should always check both the outage map and @ReadingLight to confirm whether RMLD Crews are already aware of the issue.
Be prepared: before the storm
RMLD emphasizes that preparation is the best defense against severe weather. Residents are encouraged to take the following steps ahead of the storm:
Build an emergency kit using MEMA’s Emergency Kit Checklist
Stock non-perishable food, drinking water, and pet supplies
Ensure first aid supplies and prescriptions are filled
Have flashlights, spare batteries, candles, and matches available
Fill gas tanks or fully charge electric vehicles
Charge phones, tablets, and laptops in advance
If water service could be affected, fill a bathtub with water for flushing toilets (do not use for drinking)
Set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting before the storm and reset once power is restored
Review safe generator use and never run generators indoors
Gather books, games, and activities to keep family members occupied
Home medical devices
Residents who rely on medical devices requiring electricity should have a backup plan in place. If power is lost and a backup location is unavailable, individuals should go to the emergency room.
During the storm: what to do if the power goes out
If you lose power during the storm:
Limit opening refrigerators and freezers to preserve cold air
In cold weather, sealed food containers may be stored outside if it is safe to do so
Unplug electronics not connected to surge protectors
Follow guidance from local officials and emergency personnel
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous
If you see downed power lines or electrical equipment:
Stay at least 30 feet away
Never drive over downed power lines
Do not touch nearby trees, fences, guardrails, or objects
Report immediately to RMLD at 781-942-6598 or 781-944-1340, or contact emergency services
How RMLD prepares for storms
Ahead of major weather events, RMLD takes several proactive steps:
Monitoring conditions closely before and during storms
Planning resources, including staffing and equipment needs
Communicating status with town officials and emergency personnel
Restoring power as quickly and safely as conditions allow
Restoration work begins as soon as it is safe for crews to assess damage. Estimated restoration times may change as conditions evolve and additional damage is discovered.
After the storm: recovery & responsibility
RMLD continues to provide restoration updates through @ReadingLight and the Outage Map as crews work to safely restore service.
Residents are also reminded that homeowners share responsibility for maintaining safe electrical service. If electrical equipment on your property is damaged during or after a storm, residents should review RMLD’s Homeowner Responsibility Guidelines to determine whether to contact RMLD or a licensed electrician.
As winter weather approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed, prepare early, and prioritize safety throughout the storm.
