Electric News Releases - 1999

September 20, 1999

Significant Progress Made In Restoration Effort

RICHMOND, Va. – All but about 1,600 Virginia Power customers who lost their power because of Hurricane Floyd have had their electric service restored. Another 7,000 customers in North Carolina are still without electricity because of high water and flooding, which are preventing accessibility in the northeastern portion of that state.

Forecasters are monitoring Tropical Storm Harvey, which is expected to move north from the Gulf of Mexico and bring rain to the company's service area Tuesday and Wednesday. The rain could trigger additional flooding.

"We anticipate completing restoration in all areas where accessibility is available by Monday evening," said Tom Hyman, vice president and general manager-Distribution. "However, washed-out roadways, swollen streams and high water levels have prevented utility crews from accessing many work sites in Chuckatuck and northeastern North Carolina."

In Tarboro, N.C., where the Tar River crested at 24 feet above flood stage, the North Carolina Power substation is under water. Virginia Power operates as North Carolina Power in the northeastern part of the Tar Heel state.

"Our crews are working through disaster conditions," Hyman said. "Areas where restoration is impeded by flood waters are being monitored and will be accessed as soon as possible."

Virginia Power has approximately 1,700 line employees, tree trimmers and contractors working in affected areas to restore power. The company also is receiving assistance from American Electric Power, Allegheny Power, Louisiana Power & Light and FirstEnergy.

Virginia Power is the principal subsidiary of Dominion Resources Inc. (NYSE: D), an energy company with headquarters in Richmond.

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