Progress Energy Carolinas is tracking the progress of a yet-unnamed weather system over the Atlantic Ocean that could turn into Tropical Storm or Hurricane Gabrielle by the weekend. The company is making preparations for any effects the storm may have on the company's service territory.

"As with any tropical storm or potential hurricane, the main concerns are with high winds and the potential for flooding," said Hershell McCarty, system storm coordinator for Progress Energy Carolinas. "There is a broad range of possibilities for this storm in our service area, and the forecast will likely change in the coming days, so we are preparing for whatever Mother Nature brings.

"We are continuing to work through all of our pre-storm planning to ensure that we have the supplies and resources needed to respond to any power outages," McCarty said. "And since this is the first threat of tropical weather in the Carolinas this season, we encourage our customers to review their own safety plans."

After severe weather, Progress Energy takes specific steps to restore power. Progress Energy crews first assess damage and determine what crews, equipment and supplies will be needed to make repairs. The company makes repairs to the largest facilities first - starting with transmission lines and substations and moving on to distribution lines and, ultimately, to individual service lines. This process helps to restore service to the most customers the quickest.