Thousands lose power in Dunn for emergency repairs
DUNN, N.C. (WTVD) -- Nearly half of the population in Dunn was without power over the weekend. Around 4,500 Duke Energy customers had to brave steamy temperatures as the heat index temps soared into the triple digits.
On North Wilson Street, Dunn resident Mary Bethea and her family told ABC11 they are doing what they can to beat the heat.
"Whew! We'll make it out some kind of way," Bathea said. "Can't do nothing about it. Just have to go along with the program."
Duke Energy says the issue was due to a transformer malfunction at its substation Saturday evening.
The issue caused a major inconvenience at the local hospital in town, leaving patients and staff uncomfortable and in the dark for nearly two hours.
Dunn resident Laronda Abney wasn't so lucky. She and her granddaughter were without power for six hours.
"Yesterday to me was the hottest day," Abney said. "I had to leave my home and go to my sister's in the next city to stay cool."
Power to most residents was restored overnight, only to be shut off again Sunday evening.
Duke Energy alerted customers through phone calls and social media that crews needed to shut off electricity for about two hours to make permanent repairs.
"Two days in a row, in the hottest part of the summer, we're not liking it," Abney said.
Duke Energy apologized for the inconvenience. The majority of Duke Energy customers in Dunn should now have power.
