March 16, 2025

BREC’s sister co-ops join restoration efforts

Black River Electric Cooperative crews have restored power to approximately 8,100 members since the severe thunderstorms and at least two tornadoes ripped through the area late Friday night. There are 1,711 members without power as of 8:00 Sunday morning.

For the second time in 2025, we’re thankful for the sixth cooperative principle, “Cooperation Among Cooperatives” and the mutual assistance from fellow Missouri Electric Cooperatives.  89 additional line workers, contractors and tree crews have joined BREC to rebuild what the tornadoes destroyed. Lineworkers from Macon Electric Cooperative, Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Lewis County Electric Cooperative, New-Mac Electric Cooperative, Sac-Osage Electric Cooperative, Barton County Electric Cooperative, Howard Electric Cooperative, Central Missouri Electric Cooperative, Cuivre River Electric Cooperative, Se-Ma-No Electric Cooperative and Laclede Electric Cooperative have joined power restoration efforts.

Crews are working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.  The force of the storm broke 133 poles, which are time intensive to change out. Work will continue until every member able to receive power has it. Outage updates can be found on our website, https://www.brec.coop/storm-center.

Members with structural damage (service entrance, meter base, mast pulled off the house) are encouraged to contact an electrician to inspect or make repairs before they can be reconnected. Any structural damage can affect the safety of the service when energized. Call the BREC Service Department with questions, 1-800-392-4711.

Assume all low and downed lines are energized and dangerous. Never approach a downed power line. Do not try to drive across or move lines. They can cause serious injury or death. Report these situations to BREC immediately.

We are heartbroken for the families and communities that were affected by this storm. We appreciate the patience of the membership as we do our part in restoring hope to those affected.