For Immediate Release
February 23, 2026

Commissioner Director releases another JCP&L update as storm continues

Provides residents with options for reporting power outages

FREEHOLD, NJ – Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone released the following statement regarding JCP&L’s ongoing operations and the ways residents can report power outages, should they occur:

“This morning, I received a detailed briefing from the leadership team at JCP&L regarding ongoing restoration efforts following this significant winter storm impacting Monmouth County.

Strong winds and heavy snowfall have affected more than 160,000 JCP&L customers across the region. As of this morning’s update, approximately 70,000 customers remain without service, approximately 25,000 of those customers are in Monmouth County. Crews have worked around the clock in extremely hazardous driving and working conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible and will continue to do so until all remaining customers are restored.

JCP&L currently has more than 2,300 personnel engaged in the field. These crews are operating in dangerous conditions, including high winds, whiteout visibility, and blocked roadways.

I want to highlight the continued collaboration between JCP&L and Monmouth County. Our Monmouth County Public Works team has been actively assisting by clearing roads and improving access so utility crews can reach impacted neighborhoods and respond to emergencies more efficiently. This coordination is critical during storms of this magnitude.

Safety remains the top priority. I strongly urge residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Downed wires, falling branches, and poor visibility continue to create unsafe conditions.

Residents can report outages to JCP&L through the following methods:

• Call: 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877)

• Text: OUT to 544487 (LIGHTS)

• Online: Visit firstenergycorp.com and click “Outages”

Please remain patient as crews continue restoration efforts. They are working tirelessly in difficult conditions to get power restored to our communities.

Stay safe, Monmouth County.”

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