Thousands on Whidbey Island are still in the dark after a fierce storm, leaving residents grappling with power outages and the aftermath.
High winds have wreaked havoc on Whidbey Island, particularly in the southern region, causing widespread power outages. As of Thursday evening, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) reported over 10,000 customers without electricity, a day after the storm hit. This has left many residents, like those in the Clinton area, dealing with dark traffic signals and gas stations.
But here's where it gets controversial... The damage is extensive, with power lines down in 70 different areas across the island. PSE crews are working tirelessly to restore power, but the process is slow. Residents are finding ways to cope, from using generators to lining up for propane to power their homes and businesses.
One resident, Rocky Shore, a Whidbey Island veteran of over 20 years, shared his experience. His home has been without power for two days, but he's prepared, using a generator to keep things running. Lakeside Bible Camp also felt the storm's wrath, with about 18 trees falling during the windstorm. Staff are working to clean up and hope to have everything back to normal before their Christmas break.
And this is the part most people miss... PSE crews are prioritizing clearing fallen trees from transmission lines to restore substations. Shore points out a common experience: restoration efforts often start in the north, near the Navy base, and work their way south.
What do you think? Are you in an area affected by these outages? How are you coping? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
