Heavy winds wreaked havoc across New Hampshire on Thursday, plunging thousands into darkness. By early afternoon, over 10,000 residents were without power, but thanks to swift restoration efforts, this number dwindled to around 900 by evening.
In Nashua, the winds compromised utility poles, causing wires to dangerously sag over the busy Daniel Webster Highway. This prompted officials to close the highway between Spit Brook Road and Adventure Way for safety. Meanwhile, in Antrim, utility workers from Eversource announced plans to temporarily shut off electricity to facilitate repair operations, which could leave the town without power for approximately two hours.
Areas like Bedford, Keene, and Epping suffered significant outages, with Eversource crews working diligently to restore service as conditions permitted. Utility representatives emphasized the importance of safety, urging residents to avoid any downed wires or damaged trees, and to contact local authorities about unsafe situations.
The National Weather Service had issued a wind advisory for New Hampshire, which lifted by 9 p.m. as conditions began to normalize. Although calmer, Friday is expected to remain breezy with temperatures dropping significantly, and weather alerts remain crucial for residents to stay informed.
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Windstorm Devastation in New Hampshire: Outage Recovery and Safety Precautions
Overview of the Storm’s Impact
On a turbulent Thursday in New Hampshire, heavy winds left over 10,000 residents without power, causing significant disruptions across various towns. Although restoration efforts were swift and effective, by early evening, the outage count was reduced to around 900, highlighting the resilience of utility workers and emergency services.
Key Areas Affected
Nashua: This city experienced compromised utility poles, leading to dangerously sagging wires over the busy Daniel Webster Highway. For safety reasons, local officials closed a section of the highway between Spit Brook Road and Adventure Way.
Antrim: In response to the storm’s damage, Eversource utility workers planned to temporarily cut power to perform necessary repairs, impacting the town for approximately two hours.
Other Affected Areas: Towns such as Bedford, Keene, and Epping faced significant outages. Utility crews worked tirelessly to restore power as conditions allowed.
Safety and Recovery Measures
In light of the storm’s damage, Eversource and local officials emphasized safety measures. Residents were urged to:
– Avoid downed wires and damaged trees: Staying away from these hazards is crucial for personal safety.
– Report any unsafe conditions: Contact local authorities to address any dangerous situations.
Weather Conditions Following the Storm
The National Weather Service had placed a wind advisory for New Hampshire, which was lifted by 9 p.m. as conditions began to improve. However, Friday was anticipated to remain breezy, with notable temperature drops. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing weather alerts to prepare adequately.
Tips for Future Storm Preparedness
1. Stock Emergency Supplies: Make sure to have a supply of essentials, such as water, non-perishable food, medications, and flashlights, in case of future outages.
2. Stay Informed: Use local news apps, such as the WMUR app, for real-time updates on weather conditions and safety alerts.
3. Check Emergency Kits: Ensure your emergency kits are well-stocked and in a readily accessible location.
4. Community Resources: Be aware of community resources available for those without power, including shelters and assistance programs.
Conclusion
The recent windstorm in New Hampshire serves as a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of community preparedness and safety. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring their safety during severe weather events.
For further updates on weather conditions and safety measures, visit WMUR.
