ST. LOUIS – Our dangerous, prolonged heatwave has Ameren Missouri on-the-ground keeping reliable energy running and your house cool.
Tommie Bugett, Ameren’s North Metro Operating Director, says it’s a 24/7 thing. Emergencies happen and with a stagnant weather pattern only giving way to nighttime lows in the 80s, crews come in and get the work done.
The stress of the heat not only is felt on the electric grid but the crew working on the ground in the hot sun, high temperatures and oppressive humidity.
St. Louis radar: See a map of current weather here
FOX 2 News was at the scene of Ameren workers replacing wire to newly implemented poles. Reconstruction is an example of how they work in this inclement weather to keep power on for customers.
It’s a hot job, nonetheless. Factor in the heavy equipment and fire-retardant clothing, which makes it difficult with heat indices well into the 100 degree-range.
“Number one – staying hydrated. Also, they take cooling breaks, but one example of what they’re up against…which is part of their PPE, is wearing FFR clothing, fire-retardant clothing,” Bugett said. “Much heavier clothing, but it also protects your skin.”
Rotating cooling breaks is a must in extreme temperatures as utility crews combat the intense St. Louis heat.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Comments