TECO Works Around the Clock to Restore Power in South Florida Amid Hurricane Aftermath
TECO Works Around the Clock to Restore Power in South Florida Amid Hurricane Aftermath
TAMPA, Fla. — As thousands of residents in South Florida remain without power, TECO is ramping up efforts to restore electricity, with CEO Archie Collins announcing that over 6,000 line workers are tirelessly working 16-hour shifts to bring the lights back on.
Collins expressed empathy for those affected, stating, "We know how frustrating it is, how inconvenient it is not to have power, and so the team is really committed to the cause." The urgency of the situation is palpable, especially in neighborhoods like New Baycrest, just a few miles from Tampa International Airport.
In New Baycrest, residents Ben and Maria Coggins are picking up the pieces after enduring the wrath of two hurricanes. Despite still being without power and facing significant home repairs, the couple remains optimistic. "We feel blessed for what we do have. We’re not really crying about what we no longer do or what we don’t," Ben shared. Their focus is on gratitude rather than loss. "We’re alive. All of our family members are alive and accounted for, you know. And unfortunately, not everyone can say that. So our hearts go out for them," he added.
TECO’s restoration efforts are bolstered by workers who have traveled from as far as Canada to assist. However, Collins cautioned that simply adding more personnel could complicate safety protocols. "The more resources you throw at it, the greater the risk you’re going to have a safety issue. And so 6,000 resources is by far the largest contingent ever assembled at TECO… so we have what we need to affect a timely and a safe restoration," he explained.
The utility company anticipates that power restoration will be completed by next Thursday, but the road to recovery is still long for many residents.
In nearby Pasco County, Kelly Welty is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which left her mobile home roofless. "I cried, of course, because I’ve worked very hard getting it nice, which has been difficult for me since I lost my husband and being alone,” she said, reflecting on her struggles. Her home was the only one in the Buena Vista community to be completely totaled by a tornado, adding to her frustration.
As residents like Welty navigate the challenges of rebuilding, many are also facing hurdles with FEMA’s assistance process, compounding their stress during this already difficult time.
As TECO continues its restoration efforts, the resilience and spirit of the South Florida community shine through, reminding everyone that even in the darkest times, hope and determination can light the way forward.