NRI – Thousands across the state remained without power Wednesday morning after heavy winds knocked down trees and took out lines Tuesday evening.
The storm left more than 140,0000 Rhode Islanders in the dark, with crews from Pascoag Utility District and National Grid working overnight on restorations. More than 75,0000 of the outages were reportedly in Providence County, including broad swaths of North Smithfield and Burrillville.
In Burrillville, the storm took down trees on Wallum Lake Road, knocking down poles and briefly starting a fire.
“Safe, temporary repairs were made while the storm was active in order to get customers back on quickly and then permanent repairs were made today,” noted PUD officials Thursday, Aug. 6.
On Cherry Farm Road, crews had to to rebuild several sections of downed wire.
Tropical Storm Isaias also took out PUD customers along Reservoir Road, Jackson Schoolhouse Road, Knibb Road, Courthouse Lane, Collins Taft, Hill Road, Ledgewood Lane, Centennial Street, Point Lane, Spring Lane, James Street, Moroney Road, Chums Blvd, Whispering Pine Drive, and Sandwood Estates.
“This was a fast storm that caused a lot of damage in a short time,” noted PUD officials. “Our linemen are working hard to get customers back up as quickly as possible.”
National Grid officials initially said that complete restoration could take up to three days, but were making fast progress Wednesday, Aug. 5, with many homes lighting up between 8 and 9 a.m.
Both utility companies reminded customers not to touch downed lines.
PUD customers in need of assistance can call (401) 568-6222.
“We appreciate your patience,” PUD officials noted.
