City Crews Continue to Investigate Electrical Issues

TIME OF UPDATE: 09/16/24 12:14 PM

Public Works crews have been diligently working to identify the root cause of the power blinks occurring City-wide. This includes requesting additional assistance from area municipalities, contracted partners, and Evergy. While the underlying problem causing these issues has yet to be identified, crews will continue to work until a solution is determined. Power blinks are occurring fast enough that breakers are not being tripped. This makes locating faults extremely difficult.

To date, crews have tested lines with infrared cameras to check for loose connections and/or high temperatures which may be contributing to the problem. Ground checks have been installed on breakers (though, as noted, the speed of the surges make this process more difficult). Several limbs have been removed that may have interfered with lines, though this does not seem to be related to the primary service issues.

The City has a preliminary map of the affected areas, thanks in part to the customer reports that are coming in. Next steps regarding billing, claims for damages, etc. will be addressed once a solution is identified. To report issues with your property please call City offices at 785-542-3100 and dial extension 7 to reach Public Works.

As soon as substantive update is available, City staff will update this page.

The next update to this issue will be posted here no later than 2:00 PM