Several downed power lines cause massive power outages overnight

A brief but intense storm that rolled through Rabun County Tuesday night caused many trees to go down, knocking out power lines with them.

Almost 700 meters were knocked out after trees fell across several lines north of Highway 76 West during the storm.

According to HEMC Executive Nicole Dover, power was restored at a slow pace due to the extensive damage.

“A single tree that fell across the North Burton circuit pulled lines hard enough to break two power poles, which yanked spans of line out of place,” Dover said.

HEMC line crews were able to restore power around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning. Though, there may be downed trees in certain areas or residual lines that need repairing.

Safety officials advise to never touch a downed power line and act as if each line is energized.