Power outage in Jan Juc and Torquay after truck hits power lines, traffic disrupted
Traffic signals also failed, raising safety concerns during evening peak hour.
Powercor reported that approximately 4,900 customers lost power completely, while others experienced power surges that reset devices.
CFA District 7 Commander Wayne Aylmer stated that the truck driver was unharmed but was forced to remain inside the vehicle for close to an hour.
“The elevated tray clipped the 22,000-volt power line,” Commander Aylmer said.
“The driver is still in the vehicle and will likely stay there until power companies arrive and ensure it is safe for him to disembark.”
Commander Aylmer mentioned that there is likely protection in the lines that have deactivated them, but cautioned against taking any risks.
“In situations like this, if you are safe and not in immediate danger from fire, it’s safest to stay in the vehicle until someone confirms it is safe to get out.”
Power was restored to the majority of customers just before 5:00 pm, and Powercor is working to fully restore it.