Why Snakes Cause Power Outages in North Carolina
Snakes can climb utility poles and enter transformer cabinets, where they may bridge energized components or trigger protective devices. In North Carolina, wildlife contacts on distribution lines are a documented cause of brief outages and flickers, especially in rural and suburban areas.
How Utilities Respond and Restore Power
When a snake causes a fault, utilities typically de-energize the line, inspect equipment, remove the animal, and reset protection before reclosing. North Carolina power companies report that wildlife-related outages are usually short, but repeated incidents can lead crews to install covers or barriers on vulnerable equipment.
How Residents Can Prepare and Stay Safe
Customers should report outages promptly, avoid downed lines, and keep flashlights and battery-powered devices ready. To reduce wildlife risks near property, residents can clear vegetation from poles and transformers and avoid handling snakes themselves. For outage tracking and safety guidance, visit NCUC.gov.
