Causes of Power Outages

Thunderstorms, high winds, ice and snow can cause damage to our electrical distribution system.  When an object comes into contact with a power line, such as a tree limb, the circuit breaker or other protective equipment automatically shuts off the flow of power.  During severe weather, trees may be uprooted and fall into the power lines snapping poles and bringing down miles of wires.

The repair process can be difficult as our crews inspect the lines and equipment to locate the exact damage.  Often times, trees and debris are blocking streets and prevent access to certain areas.  Follow Lineman Joe as he gives an easy step-by-step tour of the typical outage repairs that are made from substations, to neighborhoods, to your home. 

Weather-Related Causes

Lightning
Lightning can hit our electrical equipment, causing you to lose power.  It can also strike trees, which may fall onto power lines and cause outages.

Ice
Ice storms create a buildup of ice on power lines and on trees.  The weight of the ice can cause tree limbs and entire trees to fall onto power lines.

High Winds & Tornadoes
High winds may cause power lines to touch and short out, resulting in an outage.  Wind may also blow tree limbs or entire trees onto power lines.

Heavy Rain & Flooding
Heavy rains can cause flooding in certain areas which can damage both above-ground and underground electrical equipment.

Other Causes of Outages

Vehicle & Construction Accidents
Vehicle accidents can result in broken poles, causing power lines to break or touch.  Accidental contact with underground or overhead power lines at construction sites can also cause power outages.

Animals
Small animals such as birds, squirrels and snakes climb on certain pieces of equipment, such as transformers and fuses, causing the equipment to shut down.