A transformer explosion in North Lewiston knocked out electricity for more than 1,100 Avista customers Thursday evening, triggering a roughly two-hour outage that prompted police to step in and direct traffic at several busy intersections.
The outage stretched across a wide section of North Lewiston, affecting neighborhoods from 21st and Main streets up toward 12th Avenue. Avista crews initially projected power would be restored by 11:30 p.m., but service was actually back online around 10:30 p.m. — about an hour ahead of schedule.
Officers Manage Intersections as Signals Go Dark
With traffic signals offline, Lewiston police responded to multiple intersections, directing vehicles through the darkened corridors for a period of approximately 30 minutes. Authorities noted that some officers may have simultaneously been handling unrelated calls during that window. Once power was restored, traffic signals resumed normal operation and the police presence was no longer needed.
The incident is the latest in a string of recent public safety and infrastructure events in the Lewiston area. A power outage affecting approximately 1,100 Lewiston customers was reported earlier, and a shop fire that left a building a total loss in Lewiston also drew emergency response in recent weeks.
What Comes Next
Avista has not released details on the cause of the transformer failure or whether infrastructure repairs or upgrades are planned for the affected area. Residents with ongoing power concerns are encouraged to contact Avista directly. Lewiston police have not indicated any further traffic management measures are anticipated in connection with this incident.