For Immediate Release

June 26, 2024

5:03 pm

Contact: Jim Anderson, General Manager

Update – Darlene Fire

Due to the ongoing Darlene Fire activity and adverse weather conditions, we have placed our distribution system on our most sensitive settings. If a power outage occurs while the system is in wildfire mitigation settings, all of the affected lines are required to be inspected before power can be restored, resulting in longer restoration times. The safety of the public and our membership is a top priority. With evacuation notices in place, please take the necessary precautions to keep you and your family safe. We’ll keep you updated as the situation evolves.

For Immediate Release

June 25, 2024

3:43pm

Contact: Jim Anderson, General Manager

Possible Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Due to Darlene Fire

La Pine, OR – Due to the Darlene Fire, Midstate Electric may enact a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) at any given moment. Our Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) substation is in the fire zone and is what feeds power to La Pine and surrounding areas. The fire did not originate in the vicinity of Midstate equipment. The cause is unknown at this time. Based on fire activity and direction from fire officials, this action would be immediate with no further notice. We are monitoring the situation and cooperating with public agencies.  A PSPS is a preventative operation to help ensure electric utility equipment does not start or contribute to wildfires. Once the hazard conditions subside, it could take some time for crews to patrol lines for safety prior to power being restored. Therefore, the public should be prepared for extended outage restoration times. Updates will be posted to MEC’s Facebook and Instagram pages. A live outage map can be found on our website at www.mse.coop, which can be easily accessed on a smart phone or tablet. Members are advised to follow their local emergency agency’s advice and instructions about preparing for the event.