News : Power outage caused by lightning strike

Placing a tube over the powerlines to protect the worker

With the problem located, trucks began to arrive

The activity outside the light plant on Sunday afternoon

Keeping an eye on things from the ground

Life at the top...of the electric pole

In a conversation with Kevin Kirchner, the General Manager of the Light Plant he explained that the power outage in Vinton on Sunday was due to a lightning strike. Lightning struck in the area of Celebration Park on 2nd St. Damage was assessed from the ground and crews and equipment were brought to the scene to repair the damage.

During outages, calls to the plant cannot be returned nor follow up calls made. The plant is simply about getting the job done. Crews are all hands on deck to fix the problem, but rest assured that they know there is an issue and crew are working as quickly as possible to repair the situation and get everyone back online. They appreciate the concern of residents and their patience as they repair the damage. Power was only out for parts of Vinton for around an hour. 

If you live in Vinton, you know that any time the power goes out we will be back as soon as humanly possible. As I watched the crews running from building to building to fix the issue, I even saw those who had retired respond trying to help locate the issue.

I was reminded of what an awesome little town we have and I was very appreciative of all of our men who work in our electric department. 

Kudos to the guys who thought they had a Sunday off, but reported to work to bring the town back online. You are so appreciated!