High winds cause power outages in Black Hills area - KOTA Territory News

High winds cause power outages in Black Hills area

Posted: Updated: Oct 18, 2012 11:53 AM

Strong winds continue to whip through the area; igniting wildfires, taking down power lines, and overturning semis.

Power lines are down throughout KOTA Territory Thursday. At least 5,000 Black Hills Power customers are without power, including the Pennington County Courthouse which was closed as a result.

One semi on Elk Vale Road was overturned by the wind and rammed into an overhead street light. We're told that multiple trailers, campers and semis overturned Thursday and Wednesday night, and there are multiple fires in and around the Black Hills.

There is a fire near Palmer Gulch Road, one west of Custer, another near Piedmont, one in Reno Gulch and another near Saint Francis, South Dakota. There are at least two more fires in the area as well.

 

Original story:

Black Hills Power crews are restoring power throughout the Black Hills area.

Severe winds of 50 mph with gusts up to 70 mph are causing power outages.
 
"Our crews have been actively responding to restore power in the past 24 hours," said Chuck Loomis, Vice President of Operations.

Customers can call Black Hills Power day or night at 800-742-8948 for specific information about their electric service.
 
Safety note – Customers are reminded to stay clear of downed power lines, poles or other equipment. First, call 911, and then contact Black Hills Power at 800-742-8948.

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