How to Respond and Stay Safe During a State College Power Outage

When an unexpected State College power outage occurs, it can disrupt daily life for students, residents, and local businesses. Severe weather, such as thunderstorms, often triggers these outages, affecting thousands in Centre County. Knowing how to respond can help you stay safe and make the most of available resources.

What Causes a State College Power Outage?

Most power outages in State College result from severe weather conditions. Heavy rain, high winds, and lightning strikes can damage utility lines, cutting electricity to entire neighborhoods. Occasionally, technical failures or accidents can be to blame as well.

Local utility providers work as quickly as possible to restore power, but widespread outages, like those caused by recent storms, may last for several hours or more. During such times, prioritizing safety and well-being is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take During a Power Outage

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:
   • Check if the outage is limited to your home or affects your whole neighborhood.
   • Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from surges when power returns.
2. Conserve Device Power:
   • Use your phone sparingly for essential communications.
   • Have battery-powered lights or flashlights ready for use.
3. Stay Informed:
   • Listen to local news or weather updates using a battery-powered radio or your phone if possible.
   • Avoid candles if possible, as open flames can be a fire hazard.

Campus Resources for Students During Outages

Penn State's administration understands the disruption caused by a State College power outage. The university offers a range of support services to help students meet their basic needs:

• Dining Halls Remain Open: Penn State provides a $10 all-you-can-eat option for lunch and dinner at all campus dining halls except the HUB, making food accessible even when off-campus services are down. Learn more about support and resources from Penn State.

• Campus Buildings with Power: Most university facilities remain operational, allowing students to attend classes and access WiFi at campus libraries, including Patee and Paterno.

• Showers and Warm Spaces: The HUB-Robeson Center stays open 24/7, providing access to hot showers and safe places for students.

• Legal and Emotional Support: Free legal services are available for students facing housing disputes. Additionally, mental health resources—including Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)—are accessible for those feeling overwhelmed. For additional help, visit the Student Affairs resource guide.

• Basic Needs Assistance:

  • The Lion’s Pantry provides food and hygiene supplies.
  • Student Care and Advocacy connects students with housing, food, and utility support.
  • For crisis situations, Centre Helps offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies.

Safety Tips and Cautions

While navigating a State College power outage, it's important to stay away from downed wires and hazardous areas. Severe weather can cause electrical lines to fall, posing life-threatening dangers. Tragically, recent storms in Pennsylvania led to serious accidents involving live wires. Read more about storm safety and local incidents.

If you encounter downed wires or notice unsafe conditions, notify authorities immediately and avoid the area.

Final Thoughts: Staying Prepared and Supported

Power outages in State College can occur with little warning. Staying updated and using available campus and community resources can make a significant difference. Check for updates from your university, take advantage of support services, and prioritize safety at all times. If you’re unsure where to turn during an outage, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Penn State support network or local help lines.

Stay proactive to ensure your well-being and that of the surrounding community each time a State College power outage strikes.