Avista says wildfires damage West Spokane transmission lines, risking periodic power outages
AVA•Wildfire damage leaves some outages in place
Avista said wildfires damaged electric and natural gas infrastructure in the Spokane area, leaving ongoing outages because of access limits and safety conditions.
The company said it restored power to customers affected only by wildfire-related public safety shutoffs, which were implemented Saturday across parts of Washington and Idaho.
West Spokane transmission damage reduces capacity
Avista said transmission damage in West Spokane reduced system capacity, raising the risk of periodic outages during repairs.
About 5,300 natural gas customers remained out of service as crews waited for safe access to assess damage and begin restoration.
