Pennsylvania Power & Light Co. is prepared to respond to any service problems that may result from the winter storm that was overspreading eastern and central Pennsylvania Thursday afternoon (1/9).

"We are monitoring weather conditions and will have crews ready to respond to any power outage calls we receive," said Robert M. Geneczko, PP&L vice president-Electrical Systems.

He said the number of power outages caused by a storm depends on the type of precipitation that falls. Ice, freezing rain and wet snow cause the most damage to power lines and electrical equipment.

The current forecast calls for 2 to 6 inches of snow accumulation across PP&L's service area, followed by freezing rain that could cause ice build-up on tree limbs and power lines in portions of the area.

Customers who lose power should call PP&L's toll-free telephone number to report the problem. That number, available 24 hours a day, is 1-800-DIAL PPL (1-800-342-5775).

"If this storm results in power outages, we will work through the night, if need be, to restore service to customers as quickly as possible," Geneczko said.

PP&L provides electric service to 1.2 million customers in 29 counties of eastern and central Pennsylvania.