The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:

PINEVILLE, La. – Feb. 17, 2021 (1:30 p.m.) – Approximately 20,000 Cleco customers across Louisiana are without power due to freezing rain and ice that began this afternoon. 
 

“Several of the parishes we serve are currently experiencing freezing rain and ice from a second winter storm, and with temperatures expected to remain near or below freezing for most of the day, more power outages are likely,” said James Lass, director of distribution operations and emergency management.  “As conditions deteriorate, we are asking customers to avoid unnecessary travel, operate generators outside in well-ventilated areas and stay away from downed power lines.”  
 
In addition to Cleco personnel, the company has secured nearly 400 contractors to assist with power restoration efforts. “Our crews will work throughout the day to restore as long as it’s safe,” said Lass.  “The safety of our employees, contractors and customers is priority in everything we do.”
 
Reasons for power outages during ice and snow:
• Trees can become heavy and brittle due to the accumulation of ice and snow, breaking and falling onto our system.
• Power lines and other equipment can become damaged due to the weight of ice and snow on the system.
 
Safety tips:
• Operate portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas and plug appliances directly into generators with grounded extension cords. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet.
• Assume all downed power lines are live and stay away.  Report downed power lines immediately by calling 1-800-622-6537 and 911. 
Power Outages as of 1:30 p.m.
Allen Parish
2,201
Avoyelles Parish
2,187
Beauregard Parish
2,962
Calcasieu Parish
39
Catahoula Parish
8
DeSoto Parish
140
Evangeline Parish
3,410
Grant Parish
236
Iberia Parish
5
Natchitoches Parish
77
Rapides Parish
4,995
Sabine Parish
3,765
St. Mary Parish
16
Vernon Parish
114