UPDATE: Power restoration efforts are intensifying in Clark County, Washington, as utility crews work tirelessly to repair widespread outages caused by severe storms. As of late Wednesday night, approximately 5,000 customers remain without electricity, down from a peak of 98,000 earlier in the day.
Storm activity began around 1:30 a.m. on October 25, 2023, leading to significant damage from falling trees and high winds. “We don’t miss electricity until it’s gone,” said local resident Andrew Colver, expressing frustration while walking through his darkened neighborhood. Colver was concerned about losing food from his freezer, stating, “I hope the lights get turned back on soon.”
Utility crews from Clark Public Utilities have been working around the clock to address the damage. Spokesperson Dameon Pesanti reported, “Things have been very busy. We’re working to restore power, triage the damage, and build a plan.” The ongoing efforts aim to restore service to all customers as quickly as possible.
Affected businesses are also feeling the impact. In downtown Camas, the popular restaurant Grains of Wrath announced it would remain closed due to storm damage to its outdoor seating area. Customers like Linda Mallon are left adjusting their plans, stating, “Power is hit or miss throughout town. Some places are open, and right next door some are closed.”
Pesanti urged residents to report outages promptly to assist crews in locating problems faster. He emphasized safety, advising anyone who encounters a downed power line to stay at a safe distance, especially near standing water. “It’s not worth the risk,” he warned, as the utility prepares for the possibility of additional storms in the coming days.
As crews work diligently to restore power, local residents have expressed gratitude for their efforts. Colver noted, “I know they’re working very hard. Thank you very much for all that you’re doing.”
Clark Public Utilities remains committed to keeping the community informed and safe during this challenging time. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates and report any outages as they continue their recovery efforts.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
