Employees Rally to Repair Storm Damage to Transmission Lines

Avista’s service territory in Othello, Wash. recently suffered a blow as a huge wind and thunder storm rumbled through Adams County. Mother Nature didn’t hold back as she left 41 transmission poles and 20 distribution poles in her wake, leaving more than 4,000 customers without power.

The Othello line crew along with line employees from Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene, Pullman, Lewiston and Spokane rushed to the area to begin restoration work. Twelve crews of storm soldiers were on site rebuilding the lines as of Sept. 17. Like any soldier, our line crews don't get to clock out at five and clock back in at eight each day. The work to restore power for customers in that area has been happening nearly around the clock. And, as of midnight, all customers have power thanks to the huge amount of human power showcased by dedicated Avista employees.

“I’m really impressed with the dedication of our crews to restore power in this area,” said Othello District Manager, Ian Eccles. “Getting support from other line docks demonstrates Avista’s commitment to our customers and I know they appreciate it. Spirits are high and everybody is focused on getting the job done safely.”