GPA Media Release - Damaging Winds Possible Impact on GPA’s Island-Wide Power System

(Fadian, Mangilao) – Over the past several days, GPA crews have been addressing power outages and vegetation management around the northern, central, and southern sectors of the island. Once GPA Management determines that conditions are no longer safe for repairs or tree trimming, crews will secure and stand down for their safety as the high winds make it unsafe to continue repairs or trim trees around the island.

Repairs of the system will resume once high winds subside to a safe level, GPA will mobilize our teams to proceed with assessments and repairs. This will begin the recovery phase of the island-wide power system around Guam.

Please be advised that power outages and fluctuations are expected during damaging wind conditions. GPA does not intend to shut down the island-wide power system (IWPS). The system runs automatically, and only shuts down power service to residents and businesses when damage has occurred to any of the power circuits. For safety reasons, the system will shut down automatically.

The system continues to be energized as long as power circuits remain intact. GPA’s goal is to keep part of the system running throughout the storm because it will allow for faster post-storm recovery.

As damaging winds approach Guam, power outages will occur throughout the island. If power circuits go offline, GPA will work on energizing it immediately. If power doesn’t return in a few minutes, it is most likely that the circuit is damaged and GPA will have to wait until the storm passes before it can make repairs. The GPA team is prepared to immediately begin restoration as soon as winds decrease to safe levels.

During extreme weather conditions, Trouble Dispatchers will receive calls for emergency power situations such as down energized (sparking) lines, damaged poles or blown transformers. Please stay away from all down lines and equipment as they may still be energized and can cause harm if you come in contact with the lines or equipment. Consider such situations as dangerous and life threatening. If such conditions are present, please immediately report this situation to GPA's 24-Hour Trouble Dispatch at 671-475-1472/3/4 or via direct message on GPA’s Facebook page. Please provide the exact location or address, contact information and condition of location.

GPA wants everyone to stay safe and secure, and asks for your patience and understanding as we get through the storm together.