Kirkland Power Outage News2

Seth Abraham

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01-01-2025

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Kirkland, WA - October 26, 2023 - A widespread power outage affecting thousands of residents in Kirkland is currently underway. The outage, which began at approximately 2:15 PM PST, has plunged numerous neighborhoods into darkness and disrupted essential services.

Extent of the Outage

According to Puget Sound Energy (PSE), the outage impacts an estimated 5,000 customers, primarily concentrated in the downtown and north Kirkland areas. Specific streets affected are still being compiled by PSE, but reports indicate widespread disruption across a significant portion of the city.

Initial Reports and Cause

Early reports suggest the outage may be related to a major equipment malfunction at a substation, though PSE has yet to confirm the exact cause. Crews are currently on-site assessing the damage and working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

PSE Response and Timeline

PSE has issued a statement acknowledging the outage and assuring customers that their crews are working diligently to identify the problem and implement a solution. The utility company has not yet provided a definitive restoration time, citing the complexity of the situation. However, updates are expected to be released every hour via their website and social media channels.

Safety Precautions

With the onset of evening hours and potential for hazardous conditions in the dark, PSE strongly advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid downed power lines: Treat all downed power lines as if they are live and energized. Maintain a safe distance and immediately report any sightings to PSE.
• Use caution with generators: If utilizing a generator, ensure proper ventilation and follow all manufacturer safety instructions. Improper use can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Check on vulnerable neighbors: Reach out to elderly or otherwise vulnerable neighbors to ensure their safety and well-being.

Ongoing Updates

This is a developing story. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available from PSE and other official sources. Further information, including a more precise estimate of restoration time, is expected later tonight. We urge residents to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution during this power outage.