Sawnee EMC Winter Storm Fern Membership Letter

January 26, 2026

To: Sawnee EMC Members

 RE: Winter Storm Fern

 Winter Storm Fern made an unwelcome appearance over the weekend, and we recognize the challenges it brought for many of you.  If you experienced a power outage, we know it was an inconvenience and we sincerely appreciate your patience.  For those who did not, the reliability you experienced reflects years of preparation and investment.

 It is the lasting effects of a similar winter storm that Sawnee EMC experienced in February of 2015 that made the difference.  Following that damaging ice storm, nearly 11 years ago, Sawnee EMC committed itself to strengthening its distribution system and response capabilities.  Since then, our team focused on three specific areas to improve our response for future storms.  We began deploying advanced technologies that help keep more of our members “ON” when a tree or ice impacts our lines. We proactively started to identify and selectively remove hazardous trees that could eventually damage our distribution system.  And, finally, we made improvements to strengthen our distribution system, which made it more reliable and resilient.  These long-term strategies are part of why many of you never experienced an outage during this storm.

 None of these improvements would be possible without a dedicated and caring staff who are focused on meeting the evolving needs of our members.  Please join me in thanking them for their hard work and commitment during the restoration efforts of Winter Storm Fern.  We appreciate the kind words on social media, the prayers and well wishes to everyone who was working to keep the lights on – that does not go unnoticed.

 Thank you for allowing Sawnee EMC to meet your energy needs and be your trusted energy partner.  Storms will continue to come and go, but at Sawnee EMC… 

We’re More Than Electricity, We’re Service.

 Wishing you all the best!

 Michael A. Goodroe

President and CEO,

Sawnee EMC