![Johnson-Lake-May-5-2023-tornado-repairs Dawson PPD lineworkers make repairs to broken utility poles after a tornado swept through the Johnson Lake, Nebraska, area on May 5, 2023.](https://dawsonpower.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Johnson-Lake-May-5-2023-tornado-repairs.png)
When disaster strikes, it’s easy to feel helpless. But at Dawson PPD, customers know they can count on the District to respond quickly to safely restore their power and sense of security.
That was the case when a tornado tore through the Johnson Lake community the evening of May 5, leaving more than 1,000 customers without power.
The EF-1 tornado was on the ground for around eight minutes and traveled five miles across two counties. It touched down about four miles northwest of Johnson Lake. Three irrigation pivots were toppled over before the twister pummeled two large storage sheds on the northwest end of the lake. The tornado spun southeast across the lake before damaging three homes in a row. Roofs were torn off, vehicles damaged from falling tree limbs and a covered porch was blown apart. It finally lifted east of the lake by 11:00 p.m.
Dawson PPD crews were on the scene by midnight, working tirelessly to bring the power back on. About 25 employees worked together to replace 15 poles that were broken. Lineworkers dodged downed tree limbs and debris while inspecting damage in the dark.
Thanks to the swift response of the Dawson PPD crews, most customers had their power restored by 6:00 p.m. the following day. But the work didn’t stop there. Crews continued to evaluate and make repairs to individual services throughout the weekend and into the following week, ensuring that every customer had their power back as quickly and safely as possible.
As the repairs went on, a customer went out of their way to show their appreciation for the hardworking crews by dropping off a cooler full of bottled water and pizzas. This act of kindness not only lifted the spirits of the hungry crews but also reinforced the mutual support and appreciation between Dawson PPD and their customers.
At Dawson PPD, it’s all about helping customers and providing them with safe, reliable and affordable electrical power they need to thrive, even in the face of adversity.
OTHER NEWS
Renovating your home? Be sure it is up to code.
With many of us staying in rather than going out, homeowners are looking to renovate their space into a comfortable getaway. Don't overlook the electrical wiring in your home. Each year, electrical malfunctions account for 35,000 home fires causing over 1,130...
Electrical safety tips for hunters
Electrical Safety Tips for Hunters This hunting season, we encourage all members to be aware of electrical equipment and take necessary precautions while hunting. Keep these safety tips in mind as you enjoy the great outdoors. Take notice of posted warning signs and...
Between the lines: They already know
By Gwen Kautz General Manager 308-324-2386 gkautz(at)dawsonpower.com What if they don’t? About 10 years ago, just as spring came to an end, a large storm rolled over Dawson PPD’s service area and caused major damage. As always, Dawson PPD linemen began the...