Independence Day Interrupted as extreme winds damaged dozens of poles and miles of electric and fiber
Fourth of July celebrations came to an abrupt halt as powerful storms and extreme winds swept through Central Oklahoma, damaging dozens of poles and miles of electric and fiber lines.
While communities changed their holiday plans, OEC and OEC Fiber crews immediately mobilized to begin the difficult work of restoring essential services.
More than 17,000 electric and fiber services affected
“The storms initially knocked out power to over 10,000 OEC electric members and 7,000 OEC Fiber subscribers on Saturday night, July 4,” said Brianna Wall, OEC manager of marketing and member relations. “Crews worked diligently the following 2-3 days to rebuild 48 poles and six miles of electric and fiber lines that were blown over by winds that exceeded 90 miles per hour.”
While uprooted trees and debris slowed progress, OEC, OEC Fiber and contractor crews continued working until service was restored for all members and subscribers.
“That storm packed an unexpected punch,” said Vice President of Operations Clint Mobley. “I’m proud of our crews who worked as quickly and safely as possible, spending days and nights away from their families, until all of our members had power restored.”
Electric and fiber crews work side by side
OEC Fiber crews worked alongside OEC crews to ensure internet, phone and TV services were restored for subscribers as soon as possible.
“Thanks to the ability to work in tandem with the electric lineworkers, OEC Fiber techs were able to quickly begin the long process of re-running lines and splicing so we could get our subscribers restored as quickly as possible,” said OEC Fiber President David Goodspeed.
Storm impacts OEC headquarters
In addition to the visible damage across Norman and Cleveland County, OEC’s headquarters in Norman took a direct hit, temporarily suspending all data and technical operations until repairs could be made.
This required additional effort from the network operations and information technology teams to restore communication to our system.
“We thank all of our members and subscribers for their patience as we worked to restore power and internet service,” Wall said. “The lineworkers and techs working in 100-plus degree heat appreciated the encouragement and kind words.”