It’s been a rough night and morning for thousands of VEC customers on the Plateau. Some have been without power since yesterday afternoon.  VEC crews have been out all night working to restore electricity.  The ice storm loaded down power lines, trees and tree limbs causing outages over most of Middle and East Tennessee. Power outages have been reported statewide with more than 69,000 customers in a total of 21 counties without power at times.  And it’s not over yet.  More snow is in the forecast for tomorrow through Thursday – however, most reports indicate only up to 2 inches or more total accumulations.   The worst part of the weather is going to be extremely cold air. Temperatures are not going to get above freezing until Saturday.  Temperatures will fall below zero Wednesday night.  Driving is not advisable while the roads are still iced over and back up heat is recommended for the remainder of the week.