A transformer explosion in North Lewiston triggered a significant power outage Thursday evening, cutting electricity to more than 1,100 Avista customers across a stretch of the city, according to Avista.
The outage affected a corridor running from 21st and Main streets northward toward 12th Avenue. Crews initially projected power would not be restored until around 11:30 p.m., but work was completed ahead of schedule, with service coming back online at approximately 10:30 p.m.
Officers Manage Intersections During Outage
With traffic signals dark throughout the affected area, Lewiston police moved to direct vehicles at several high-traffic intersections. For roughly 30 minutes, drivers were required to navigate busy crossings without functioning signals. Officers cleared the area once electricity was restored and normal traffic flow resumed. Authorities noted that some officers may have simultaneously been responding to unrelated calls during that period.
This is the latest in a series of power disruptions affecting Lewiston residents. Residents and motorists are reminded that intersections with non-functioning traffic signals should be treated as four-way stops under Idaho traffic law.
What Comes Next
Avista has not released details on the cause of the transformer failure or whether infrastructure repairs beyond the immediate restoration are planned. Residents with concerns about continued service reliability are encouraged to contact Avista directly. Lewiston police have not indicated any further traffic management actions related to the incident.