The short answer
How Storms Damage Power Lines
Strong winds can snap wooden poles or bend them enough to pull lines loose. Lightning strikes can melt or break conductors, and flying debris like branches or roofing material can cut or weigh down the wires. Heavy rain can soften the ground around poles, making them tilt or fall.
Ice and snow buildup add extra weight to lines, which can cause them to sag and snap. Even a moderate storm with gusty winds can bring a tree limb down across a service drop to your house. The result is the same: a live wire on the ground or dangling at eye level.
What to Do If You See a Downed Line
Stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power line and anything touching it, such as a fence or tree. Assume the wire is live, even if it looks dead or is sparking. Do not try to move it with a stick, tool, or your hands. Keep children and pets indoors.
Call your utility company to report the hazard. If the wire is near water or a puddle, back away further, because water conducts electricity. If you smell gas or see a damaged meter, leave the area and call emergency services from a safe distance.
- Keep a flashlight and batteries handy for after a storm
- Avoid driving over downed lines or through flooded areas
- Unplug sensitive electronics if you have time before the power goes out
- Know where your main electrical panel is in case you need to shut it off
- Never touch a person or object that is in contact with a downed line
Storm Damage Inside Your Home
A power outage can hide other storm damage. When the electricity returns, you might find water stains on ceilings, damp carpets, or a flooded basement from rain that entered through a damaged roof or window. Water and electricity do not mix, so check your home carefully once it is safe.
If water has reached your electrical outlets, appliances, or breaker panel, do not turn anything on. Leave the power off and call an electrician. For water that has soaked drywall, flooring, or insulation, local water damage pros can assess what needs to be removed and dried.
- Look for wet spots on ceilings and walls near light fixtures
- Check the attic for roof leaks after heavy rain
- Feel carpets and baseboards for dampness
- Listen for buzzing sounds from outlets or switches
- Take photos of any damage for your insurance records
Dealing with Fallen Trees and Debris
Storm winds often leave branches, whole trees, and other debris scattered across your yard or against your house. This debris can block doors, cover outdoor electrical boxes, or puncture siding and roofs. Removing it safely takes care, especially if power lines are tangled in the mess.
Leave debris that is touching power lines for the utility company to handle. Once the lines are clear, you can start moving smaller branches yourself. For larger trees or debris that has damaged your home, consider hiring pros to handle removal and any resulting water intrusion.
Preparing for the Next Storm
You can reduce the chance of power line damage by trimming trees near your service drop before storm season. Have a professional arborist handle branches that are close to the wires. Also, check that your roof and gutters are in good shape so rain does not back up into your home.
If you live in Layton, keep a written list of your utility contact number and the location of your main water shutoff valve. After a storm, check your downspouts and yard grading to see if water is pooling near the foundation. Acting quickly after water enters can limit the damage.
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Layton and nearby communities.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How long will my power be out after a storm?
There is no set time. It depends on how many wires are down, how hard they are to reach, and how widespread the outage is. Your utility company will give you a sensible estimate. Use the time to protect your home from water damage.
Can I remove a tree that fell on my power line?
No. Stay away from the tree and the wire. The wire may be live, and the tree could be energized. Report it to your utility company and wait for them to clear it. Only after they confirm the wire is safe can you begin cleanup.
What should I do if my basement floods during the storm?
Do not enter standing water if the power is on or if you suspect live wires. Turn off the electricity at the panel if you can do so without stepping in water. Then call local water damage pros to extract the water and begin drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.