WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ohio (October 20, 2016) - Parts of Washington County are without power after a severe thunderstorm ripped through the region this afternoon, dropping two inches of rain and sizeable hail in Devola and other parts of the region.
Representatives with American Electric Power report approximately 3,300 area customers currently without electricity in scattered locations across the county.
WMOA is receiving reports from our very own Shawn Jones and other local citizens that these outages are affecting traffic signals at the intersection of Putnam Street and Gilman Avenue, and power is also out along parts of Front and Green Streets. Traffic signals are reportedly working at the intersection of Greene Street and the Williamstown Bridge, but several signals between the bridge and downtown Marietta are currently without power.
WMOA is also hearing reports of a large tree down in Muskingum Park that is blocking a portion of Front Street, as well as downed power lines outside the Edgewater Tavern on River Road. Motorists and pedestrians are asked to use extreme caution when traveling through the area. Remember, when approaching an intersection without working traffic signals, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
AEP officials say crews are being dispatched to the area to assess the damage and make necessary repairs. Officials say they can't yet provide an estimated time for power restoration.
Washington State Community College has canceled evening classes tonight while repairs are made and debris is cleared from the area.
