UPDATE: Urgent power restoration efforts are underway in Clark County, Washington, as utility crews battle the aftermath of a severe storm that knocked out power to nearly 98,000 customers. The outages began around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday as fierce winds and falling trees wreaked havoc across the region.
Crews from Clark Public Utilities are working around the clock to repair downed lines. By late Wednesday night, the number of customers without power had significantly decreased to about 5,000, but the situation remains critical.
“We’re working to restore power, triage the damage, and build a plan,” said Dameon Pesanti, spokesperson for Clark Public Utilities. “Things have been very busy.” Residents in affected areas, like east Vancouver, are feeling the impact. Local resident Andrew Colver expressed his concerns, stating, “I hope the lights get turned back on and my freezer full of salmon doesn’t go bad.”
The storm’s effects extend beyond individual homes; businesses are also facing challenges. In downtown Camas, the popular restaurant Grains of Wrath announced it would remain closed “until further notice due to storm damage” after a portion of its outdoor seating canopy was destroyed.
Customers are left scrambling for alternatives. Local resident Linda Mallon remarked, “We were going to eat here, but now we’re going to find something else, hopefully.” The inconsistent power situation has left many businesses open while others remain dark.
Pesanti urges the public to report any outages to help crews locate and address issues quickly. He also warns residents to stay clear of downed power lines, especially in areas with standing water. “It’s not worth the risk,” he cautioned, as crews prepare for additional storms forecasted for the coming days.
As recovery efforts continue, residents like Colver are expressing gratitude to utility workers. “I know they’re working very hard,” he said. “Thank you very much for all that you’re doing.”
Clark Public Utilities remains committed to restoring service as soon as possible, with crews fully mobilized to tackle the extensive damage caused by this powerful storm. The community is urged to stay informed and prioritize safety during this challenging time.
