Florida workers head out of state to help with upcoming winter storm

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)— Florida workers are heading out of state to help with the upcoming Winter Storm.

Duke Energy is deploying 500 workers to the Carolinas ahead of the winter storm.

“Current forecasts show Winter Storm Fern has the potential to bring snow, sleet or freezing rain to the Carolinas as soon as Saturday, so Duke Energy Florida is preparing to deploy 500 crew members and contractors to offer support and help restore power as safely and quickly as possible,” Duke Energy said.

Tampa Electric is sending nearly 200 people to help restore power in Georgia and other southern states.

“As a powerful winter storm barrels across the country, Tampa Electric is sending nearly 200 people to help restore power in Georgia and other southern states expected to be hit hard by ice, freezing rain and snowfall,” TECO said.

Around 60 TECO line workers and support personnel are expected to leave today and head to Macon, Ga.

TECO workers are expected to stay up to two weeks in the area.

According to TECO, 130 tree trimming and power line contractors are traveling to help Duke Energy Carolinas and Alabama Power.