Many of you may have shared my concern last night regarding the recurring power outages over the last three nights amid the recent storms. I have obtained information regarding the nature of these outages.
The initial night’s outage stemmed from tree limbs obstructing power lines, while the subsequent two nights were attributed to lightning-induced damage.
Last night, lightning struck the insulators at the dead end of Stephens Ave, resulting in damage to the lightning arresters, thus causing power disruption. Fortunately, the arresters functioned as intended, preventing the lightning from entering our homes.
Similarly, the previous night saw lightning strike the insulators at East Fifth and St. Maurice, causing the same type of damage.
The saying goes “lightning never strikes the same place twice.” Although it didn’t hit the same insulator twice, its occurrence within the same area two nights in a row, causing the same type of damage, is noteworthy.
Remarkably, the prompt response and dedicated efforts of the City workers deserve recognition. Despite adverse weather conditions, they swiftly cleared debris and performed hazardous electrical repairs throughout the night and into the following day, ensuring the restoration of power.
C. Edward “Eddie” Harrington: Natchitoches District 1 City Councilman
