MESQUITE, Nev. — Over 15,000 Overton Power District No. 5 customers are currently experiencing a system-wide power outage caused by a fire Monday morning.
The outage started around 8 a.m. PST, when a small fire damaged a 230 KV transmission power line near the the Reid Gardner power plant in Moapa, said Keith Buchhalter, Overton Power District No. 5 public affairs representative.
The outage is affecting customers in Mesquite, Bunkerville, Logandale, Moapa and Overton.
The fire has been contained, but the damaged power pole is in need of replacement.
Because crews are dealing with a high voltage transmission line, the repairs may take some time and the power district is advising customers to plan for a prolonged outage which may last several hours.
“There’s some complexity to the operation,” Buchhalter said.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, but may be due to high winds in the area earlier this morning.
“Unfortunately, we can’t control acts of nature. But we’re working hard to get all services restored,” Buchhalter said.
Updates will be available on the Overton Power District No. 5 Facebook page or by calling (702) 397-2512.
Email: [email protected]
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Crews were able to energize critical services in Mesquite such as Mesa View Regional Hospital, the Mesquite Fire Department Station 3, and the Mesquite Police Department. We have received confirmation that Walmart has power and is open to the public as well as Flying J on exit 118 if you need gas. Crews are working repairing the damaged structure on the high voltage 230 KV transmission power line. We understand electric service is very important to you and your family, we appreciate your patience and understanding. As soon as we get a confirmation from the crew how much longer it will take to complete the repairs, we will post it immediately on social media. 1:52 PT Monday
You guys are doing a great job out there …we have family staying with us until the repairs are done