Power restoration has been completed locally following the APS power shut down that began Saturday morning.  Full power to the Grand Canyon area was restored by mid morning Sunday.

The shutdown was initiated by APS because of the threat of wildfires and it impacted multiple communities in northern Arizona in addition to the Tusayan/Grand Canyon area.

APS crews inspected equipment and power lines for damage before reconnecting power to ensure safety.

APS Photo

“Safety comes first in everything we do at APS,” said Scott Bordenkircher, APS Director of Forestry and Fire Mitigation. “Activating a PSPS is a decision we take very seriously, and we appreciate our customers’ patience, preparation and understanding. We are also thankful for strong partnerships with public safety officials and community leaders, including Coconino County, City of Flagstaff, the Town of Tusayan, Grand Canyon National Park, and the American Red Cross, who worked alongside us to support those impacted.”

During the early stages of the shutdown there was conflicting information from APS on water and ice distribution as well as cooling and charging station information. 

APS meteorologists and fire experts will continue to monitor the forecast and work in collaboration with fire and emergency officials to protect public safety.

 “This event involved critical fire-weather, with very low humidity, strong winds, and incredibly dry vegetation all happening at once,” said Cynthia Kobold, APS Supervisor of Fire Science and Meteorology. “The concern was not one single weather factor, rather the combined fire-weather environment created by those elements across areas of Northern Arizona. That combination can allow a wildfire to start and spread quickly.”