Local News: January 10, 2024

- Another wind advisory for Wednesday -

There’s another wind advisory in effect for parts of central New York including Cortland County south into northern Pennslyvania. It’s in effect until 7 PM on Wednesday. The National Weather Service says to use extra caution when driving.

- Tuesday's storms cause 5,000 to lose power in Tompkins and Cortland counties -

Tuesday's storms left over 5,000 customers without power in Tompkins and Cortland counties. The Cortland Standard says NYSEG and National Grid report more than 20 power outages across the county. At the peak on Tuesday night about 2,300 customers were without power in Cortland County. In Tompkins County, NYSEG reported most of the outages were in the city of Ithaca, the towns of Caroline and Dryden. The Ithaca Voice reports the power company says they are investigating the cause of all outages.

- Kelles to host two utility assistance events -

If you’re having trouble paying your power bills you may be able to get help at one of two upcoming events hosted by state Assembly representative Anna Kelles. Kelles is holding an open house to try to connect people with government programs that could reduce bills. They will be on January 18 in Cortland and another on January 25 in Ithaca. Any residents can attend but you must come prepared with your utility bill, an ID, a copy of your benefits letter, which can be for social security, the HEAP plan, or other public assistance, and proof of your income like a pay stub or bank statement.

- Spectrum cable rates are going up even though they’re switching to a cheaper streaming system -

And speaking of household expenses your cable bill might be going up if you’re a Spectrum customer. Later this month the cable provider will start switching from the traditional cable box to a streaming system. You can keep your old cable box but it will cost $2 more a month. The streaming service will be cheaper but the Albany Times Union reports the Essential TV package, WiFi and other options will cost more. The company says they have to raise rates because media companies, like Disney, are charging more for content.