Our stretch of good weather had to end. For over two weeks, temperatures have soared above one hundred degrees. Thanks to the robust power infrastructure, the Treasure Valley has largely avoided significant power outages. However, this streak might break today, as weather forecasters predict a massive storm this afternoon.
For the first time, Idaho Power has issued a notice that power may be turned off due to thunderstorms, heavy winds, and other potential issues. The company says these outages are necessary to protect homeowners from sparking future fires.
The relentless heat has left the ground extremely dry, increasing the risk of fires from sparks or downed power lines. The Durkee fire has already left several cities and homes in Eastern Oregon without power. Authorities have been opening and closing Interstate 84 intermittently due to the fire’s proximity, posing a danger to motorists and truck drivers.
Some residents in Boise have already experienced power outages. Idaho Power announced that certain areas would be without power from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. this evening. Let’s hope the power comes back as scheduled.
If you’re wondering what to do if your power goes out, we’ve gathered some information from Idaho Power.
Idaho Power’s Website provides a detailed approach to preparation and reaction to power outages.
- Download our free mobile app to sign up for outage-related push notifications, view the outage map, and track your power status.
- You can sign up through My Account to receive alerts about outages at your residence, and while you’re there, update your contact information if needed.
- Prepare for medical needs, whether those are related to refrigerated medicine or electrically powered medical equipment. This could mean finding a place you can go during an outage or buying a backup generator.
- Find a way to feed and water pets, guide or service animals, or livestock in case well pumps don’t have power.
- Learn how to open security gates and garage doors manually.
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What to do when you lose power from Idaho Power
- Check our Outage Map. If you don’t see your outage, you can report it at 1-800-488-6151. You can also sign up to receive text alerts.
- For safety reasons, use battery-powered lights instead of candles.
- Never use an electric generator indoors, inside the garage, or near your house’s air intake. If you plan to use a generator during an outage, ensure it meets National Electrical Code Articles 701 and 702 and does not interconnect with Idaho Power’s electrical system. If you have questions, contact us beforehand at 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151. In addition, check out this Using Portable Generators Safely brochure.
- To protect your appliances, machinery, and equipment, turn off any that were in use when the power went out. Make sure to turn off electric ranges or space heaters to prevent the possibility of a fire if you’re away when power is restored. Keep one light on so you know when power has been restored.
- After power has been restored for about 10 minutes, begin turning back on appliances and lighting in 10-minute phases. This keeps circuits from overloading and helps to restore everyone’s power more quickly and safely.
- To keep food colder longer, avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors, and keep a large block of ice in the freezer. The CDC’s food safety webpage has more tips.
- If you notice a downed power line, stay at least 100 feet back and call Idaho Power at 1-800-488-6151 to report it. Read more about being safe around downed power lines.
