A severe weather front has moved through parts of Ohio July 26 causing widespread damage and customer outages.

As of 7:15 p.m., just over 59,000 customers are without power. Most of these customers are located in the New Philadelphia, Columbus, and Newark areas.

AEP Ohio anticipates the number of customer outages will increase as the storm continues to travel across the state. AEP Ohio already has requested outside assistance from other companies, including companies within the AEP System.

In addition to restoration efforts, AEP Ohio personnel will be assessing the damage caused by the storm in order to get a more adequate estimate of restoration times.