BERLIN, Conn. (Oct. 23, 2024) – With the Hawthorne brush fire continuing to burn and spread on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin, Eversource is closely monitoring electric transmission lines and equipment in the vicinity. To assess any possible damage, the energy company is conducting ongoing aerial surveys on three of its high-voltage power lines, located approximately a mile and a half from where it is believed the fire originated.  At the present time, no issues are identified with any electric equipment in the area and no associated power outages are reported.  Eversource crews will remain on the ground engaged with emergency officials and will continue to monitor the situation and respond immediately to any problems that may arise, as well as support local and state public safety partners.

“This large brush fire is in close proximity to our transmission lines, which are the backbone of the regional electric grid, and with winds expected to pick up, we’re not taking any chances,” said Eversource President of Electric Operations in Connecticut Steve Sullivan. “We have plans in place to quickly redirect power to other lines to minimize any disruption to our customers and we’re maintaining close communication with the Governor’s office, DEEP and local partners at Berlin fire and police regarding the fire and any potential impact it could have on the electric system. Our team on the ground is also ready to assist emergency responders in any way we can.”

Eversource maintains more than 4,000 miles of overhead and underground transmission lines and substations that play an essential role in connecting customers across New England with reliable power. Transmission lines are the bulk electrical system, carrying high-voltage power from the source of generation across long distances to substations, where the voltage is made safe for delivery over roadside power lines that serve homes and businesses. Eversource is in constant communication with ISO New England, the regional power grid operator responsible for keeping electricity flowing across the six New England states. The energy company is continuing to collaborate closely with ISO New England to prepare for potential impacts to the system caused by the fire conditions.

Eversource reminds customers to always report power outages online or by calling 860-286-2000.