Volunteer Energy Cooperative (VEC) is sending nearly a dozen line workers to Dudley, Georgia to assist with Hurricane Michael recovery efforts.

The Category 4 hurricane brought devastatingly strong winds and significant rainfall to the northern Gulf Coast, and VEC crews will be assisting with the recovery effort as soon as it is safe to work.

“Strong storms like this can leave thousands of people without power,” says Rody Blevins, CEO and President of VEC. “We are proud of our linemen for volunteering to assist. They will be working long days in difficult conditions, but they were quick to respond to the call for help. We ask that the public keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers while they are away.”

Crews left early today and are expected to arrive at Oconee EMC later today, depending on traffic and weather. It is unclear how long they will be in Georgia.

“It is an honor to be able to help,” says Travis Kowanetz, a line worker with VEC. “You are helping people when they need it the most.”

Crews from VEC are joining some 100 other line workers from 12 other electric co-ops across Tennessee who will be assisting with hurricane recovery efforts. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association in Nashville is coordinating requests for mutual aid and makes travel and lodging arrangements for crews who respond.