Storms descended on the Chicago area Monday evening, leaving at least 2,500 ComEd customers without power, according to the company's outage map.
A tornado watch was issued until 9 p.m. for much of the region, warning of the possibility of damaging winds and isolated hail.
As of 7:22 p.m., a total of 2,589 ComEd customers were said to be without power.
In advance of the severe weather, the company said it planned to gather additional employees and put equipment in place to respond to potential outages.
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In a news release, the utility company said that it's first priority is to restore critical facilities such as police and fire stations, nursing homes and hospital.
Customers were encouraged to take several precautions as storms approach the region.
Residents are advised to assume a power line is always energized and to not approach one.
Additionally, the utility company asks residents not to approach crews to ask about restoration times, since they may be working on live electrical equipment and are practicing social distancing.
Anyone who spots a downed power line is asked to immediately call ComEd at 1-800-EDISON (1-800-334-7661). Spanish-speaking customers should call 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237).
ComEd also urges customers to contact the company immediately if they experience an outage. Customers can text OUT to 26633 (COMED) to report an outage and receive restoration information.
