Before the recent power outage, residents in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, were enjoying relatively stable weather conditions. However, following severe storms, the situation changed dramatically, leaving many without electricity.
As of 10 a.m. on March 17, 2026, PECO reported that over 9,300 customers were affected by power outages across the region. The decisive moment came when a large tree fell on power lines, taking down a utility pole and cutting off power to numerous homes.
In Lancaster, approximately 70 people on a specific block remain without power. The City of Lancaster has responded by opening warming shelters for those affected, as temperatures drop and residents seek refuge from the cold.
In addition to Lancaster, the power outages extend into Montgomery County, where 3,387 customers are still without power across 165 outages. Bucks County is also experiencing significant disruptions, with 1,412 customers affected by 91 outages.
PECO’s reports indicate that the largest outages are impacting parts of Upper Bucks County, where restoration efforts are expected to continue into Tuesday and Wednesday. Currently, there are 455 active outages statewide.
Residents are advised to report outages directly to PECO and to avoid downed power lines while remaining cautious around storm-damaged areas as cleanup and repairs are underway. A local resident expressed concern, stating, “It’s freezing. Luckily, I had, you know, I can go to my mom’s right now with the kids and stuff.”
In Lower Frederick Township, 12 percent of customers are without power, while 500 customers in East Rockhill Township are also affected. The situation remains fluid as utility companies work diligently to restore power.
As the community grapples with these outages, the warming shelters are expected to close at 10 p.m. tonight, highlighting the urgency for residents to find safe accommodations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the timeline for restoration, but the impact of this outage is being felt across multiple counties.
