Chelan PUD restores most power, internet as next storm rolls in

CHELAN COUNTY — Utilities across western Chelan County are gradually being restored following a severe wind and rainstorm that left thousands without power, internet, water and wastewater services for multiple days. As Chelan PUD works to resolve extended outages for some areas, it warns of more potential outages coming.

Electricity

At the height of the storm, more than 15,000 customers were without power due to fallen trees and downed powerlines, according to the PUD. Power has been restored to most customers from Cashmere to Stevens Pass. A few customers remain without power due to safety and access issues along Highway 2. Chelan PUD is working with the Washington State Department of Transportation on a plan to restore service safely.

In Stehekin, dozens of customers may be without power for a week or more depending on weather and safe access. A diesel generator is providing limited power from the

powerhouse toward Silver Bay, but the landing area remains without power. Helicopter inspections showed significant road damage and about 12 downed power poles. The Company Creek powerhouse and penstock remain intact. Chelan PUD says it is coordinating with Chelan County Emergency Management and the National Park Service to support recovery efforts and public safety.

Broadband internet

Fiber optic outages impacted about 1,360 customers in the Lake Wenatchee area and 700 customers in the Chumstick Highway area. Crews were able to restore the main fiber line on Sunday, bringing service back to all but about 150 customers.

This week, crews are focused on restoring service to Chumstick Highway and the greater Leavenworth area, first at the neighborhood level, followed by repairs for individual Customers, said Chelan PUD.

“The electrical grid can be repaired with brute force, but fiber requires finesse,” said Dan Moser, Chelan PUD’s Director of Electric and Fiber Operations. “The fiber network is complex and takes longer to repair. We appreciate everyone’s patience.”

Customers who are still unable to connect should contact their internet service provider. Chelan PUD will work directly with providers to fix issues affecting individual customers.

Water and wastewater

Water and wastewater customers may resume normal water use. Wastewater service was restored Sunday for about 100 customers along Cedar Brae Road in Lake Wenatchee after crews repaired a sewer line at Nason Creek. Service was restored Saturday for nearly 40 customers along the north shore of Lake Wenatchee after floodwaters submerged step tanks.

Potential outages coming

As another system rolls through Chelan County, residents should charge their electronics and backup batteries, stock up on water, medications and non-perishable food, prepare generators, and fill their cars with gas. Visit Chelan PUD’s website for more outage tips and outage map.

Those still without power — or who have a safety concern — should call Chelan PUD’s outage line at 1-877-783-8123. Stay far away from downed powerlines; assume that they’re live and can be fatal if touched.