Utilities have to triage, making transmission corridors safe before re-energizing substations and then restoring feeders and tap lines in neighborhoods and properties with increasing timelines for power restoration—the result is lengthier outage times for homes. PSE’s timeline during this event mirrors that logic—and underscores that multi-day outages are now a realistic planning scenario for households.
Meanwhile, backup generators didn’t always save the day. Many failed after several hours of continuous use—a generator is an engine and isn’t designed to run around the clock without proper maintenance or a steady supply of fuel. During the bomb cyclone, fire agencies across King County responded to dozens of generator-related incidents, including fires and carbon monoxide concerns, as outages stretched late into the night. It’s a sobering reminder that fossil-fuel generators come with logistical and safety risks, and prolonged use often reveals gaps in upkeep or improper installation.
When large storms knock out power for days, preparation becomes more than a essential. The bomb cyclone made clear that our modern comforts depend on fragile systems, and resilience starts at home. A realistic plan can make all the difference when the lights go out.
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