Storm Knocks Down Power Lines

(SHERIDAN COUNTY, Neb.) — Extensive damage to power infrastructure left customers without electricity following a severe storm that moved through the Hay Springs, Rushville and Gordon areas Wednesday evening.

According to the Northwest Rural Public Power District, crews were dispatched overnight to address numerous broken power poles and damaged lines, with the heaviest damage reported south of Rushville along 310th Lane and south of Gordon along Highway 27.

By early Thursday morning, crews had replaced 11 poles along 310th Lane and three poles along Highway 27. Seven additional broken poles remained south of Gordon as crews continued working to make repairs.

The utility reported that damage was extensive and initially had no estimate for when power would be restored to all affected customers. Power was restored to customers in the Rushville and Clinton areas at approximately 10 a.m. Thursday.

Additional damage was also reported north of Chadron, while crews were dispatched to investigate an outage in the Crawford area.

Northwest Rural Public Power District continues to urge residents to stay away from downed power poles and lines. Lines may remain energized, creating a potentially deadly hazard, particularly in wet conditions. Residents are asked not to drive over, approach or touch downed power lines.

Law enforcement has been assisting by stopping traffic where necessary while utility crews work to replace poles and repair damaged lines.

Crews continue working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible, with the district thanking residents for their patience and cooperation.