Pole fires cause power outages

Pole fires cause power outages

This power pole in the 700 block of 11th Avenue was out of commission for awhile Wednesday morning.

Story Published: Jul 24, 2008 at 4:17 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 10:36 PM PST

By Stephanie Smith

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LEWISTON - An early morning pole fire Wednesday knocked out power to a Lewiston neighborhood.

It happened in the 700 block of 11th Avenue at about 5 a.m.

Fire crews on scene said the transformer blew, causing the blaze.

After weeks of no rain, the dirt in the air can collect on the transformer, causing it to arc and then catch fire when the rain falls.

Fire officials said it was the fourth power pole fire in less than 24 hours.

The fire cut power to the north side of 11th Avenue. Avista said power was knocked out to 54 homes, with most of it being restored by 10:30 a.m.

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