Progress Energy Carolinas is mobilizing hundreds of company personnel in preparation for possible impact from Hurricane Ophelia. The company has recalled most of the 480 line and service and tree personnel that had been deployed to Louisiana to assist in power restoration in areas ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. They'll join the rest of Progress Energy's personnel who are on standby awaiting the arrival of Hurricane Ophelia.

"We are closely monitoring the track of Hurricane Ophelia and are prepared for whatever impact she could bring to the North Carolina coast," said Lee Mazzocchi, Progress Energy Carolinas' system storm coordinator. "While it's unfortunate we needed to bring crews back from Louisiana, the uncertain track of Ophelia requires that we make sure we have enough resources in place here in North Carolina to respond to any power outages our customers may experience."

Progress Energy uses a comprehensive storm plan to ensure quick response to storm damage. The plan includes mobilizing employees to handle increased customer calls, to quickly evaluate storm damage, to coordinate line crew and equipment mobilization, to coordinate materials required for repairs, and to arrange meals and lodging for out-of-town workers.

After severe weather, Progress Energy crews restore power by simultaneously repairing transmission lines, substations and main distribution lines. Once the main power lines and facilities are repaired, crews turn their attention to individual service wires.