NIPSCO has launched a feature on its Web site to provide updates and a map of current power outages.

The Web site, www.nipscooutages.com, shows the zip code where the outage was reported and how many customers in the area are affected. There is a zoom-in feature on the map and there is also a time when the first and last outage was reported in the area.

"It's important for our customers to have a solid understanding of what to do when an outages takes place and how the restoration process works, especially after a devastating storm," said Tim Dehring, NIPSCO senior vice president of energy delivery, in a statement.

Once a storm is assessed, NIPSCO will communicate the estimated restoration times for each community impacted by a storm, the utility said in the statement.

NIPSCO asked customers continue reporting outages to (800) 464-7726 to help the utility restore power as quickly as possible.

Measures the company recommends for preparing for a storm is to compile a kit including essential medicines, non-perishable food and water, have phone numbers of evacuation destinations with a map and to check if shrubs or trees need trimming or have any weak limbs.