In the wake of Hurricane Matthew, Florida Power and Light is using new state of the art equipment to help during and after major storms. 

  • FPL using drone to assess damage during, after storms
  • 11 drones were used during Hurricane Matthew
  • New feature uses glasses, augmented reality for operators

For companies like FPL, a major storm or even a hurricane can cause damage and power loss for thousands of customers.

New technology, specifically drones, are helping them with restoration and relief efforts.

“This helps us get eyes up off the ground and into the sky to look at our equipment,” FPL spokesperson Bill Orlove said. 

Their fleet of 11 drones was used during Hurricane Matthew, something they say helped get their crews out to the right places quickly and safely. 

“In the past we would have had to hire helicopter or a contractor and that takes time, and time is of the essence. Our customers want their lights back on quickly once severe weather occurs," Orlove said. 

They even have a new feature that allows for augmented reality. 

Glasses allow drone operators to see exactly what each drone sees while it's up in the air and out in the field. 

"It's actually putting the operator on the drone to see what the issues are, so that they can quickly assess what the situation is and tell the crews," Orlove said. 

In addition to new technology like this, FPL says they prep for storm season year-round.

Last week they held their annual storm drill where hundreds of employees practiced under simulated storm scenarios.