What To Do In A Power Outage

We know being without power is inconvenient. While some outages can be restored quickly, others could last for several hours while crews work to safely restore power. Read on to learn how to report a power outage, tips for preparing for emergency outages, and what to do during a power outage.

Please note the City of Ellensburg will notify the public via letter or doortag if there is a planned power outage in your neighborhood. 

The City purchases power from other companies, such as Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), so there is the possibility that an outage and restoration are dependent on a response from the energy provider. 

Who do I call to report a power outage?

If you are a City of Ellensburg utility customer, please text or call (509) 902-6121 to report an outage. View the Power Outage Map to see active incidents.

SMS Terms & Conditions
The City of Ellensburg now provides important text or phone notifications related to utility service, public safety, and community well-being. Msg&Data rates may apply. To opt out, text STOP or for help, text HELP to (509) 902-6121. By texting (509) 902-6121, you consent to receive SMS notifications from the City of Ellensburg.

Available Commands to Text:

  • Text "OUTAGE" – Report a power outage.
  • Text "STATUS" – Receive the current status of a power outage.
  • Text "STOP" – Stop receiving messages and opt out.
  • Text "START" – Opt back in to receive messages if you’ve previously opted out.

Message Frequency and Rates: Message frequency varies based on your interactions, City service updates, and emergencies. Standard message and data rates may apply.

If there is an imminent threat to life or property, call or text 9-1-1.

How do I get an estimated time of restoration for an outage?

An estimated time of restoration (ETR) is not always available. Every power outage is unique, and some present unexpected challenges which can make it hard to predict an ETR. Being prepared for power outages can help reduce the impact when one occurs. If the City of Ellensburg has an ETR available, it will be included in City communications. 

If you are not located within the City, please contact your power provider for updates. 
Puget Sound Energy: 1-888-225-5773
Kittitas PUD: 509-260-2300
In case of an emergency, always call 9-1-1.

How can I prepare for a power outage? 

  • Make sure to have emergency supplies on hand at home and in your vehicle, such as extra batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable foods. 
  • Have a battery-powered radio ready to go. 
  • Charge cell phones, portable batteries, and mobile devices in case the power goes out.
  • Consider buying a generator. When installing a generator, follow the instructions carefully. Keep your generator outside and run a cord inside. Don't connect your generator to main service panels—it's dangerous! Be sure to place a carbon monoxide detector indoors.
  • Have a safe alternative heat source and supply of fuel. Never burn charcoal or use a generator indoors. 

During A Power Outage

  • Report your outage. 
  • Avoid opening and closing refrigerators and freezers more often than necessary. A closed refrigerator will stay cold for up to 12 hours.
  • Turn off as many lights and appliances as you can. Leave just one light on so you know when the power is restored. 
  • Turn off high consumption devices, such as your water heater and any home heating devices such as a heat pumps, baseboard heaters or electric furnaces. In the summer, switch off air conditioning units. This reduces the load on our equipment, allowing crews to restore power to larger portions of our system at a time. Once your power is restored, you can turn all these devices back on.
  • Safety first. Never touch or go within 50 feet of downed power lines because they might be energized. 
  • Review additional tips from the Washington State Department of Health: Power Outages | Washington State Department of Health

Medical Concerns During A Power Outage

If you or someone in your household has a medical device that uses power or medications that require refrigeration, make a plan before an emergency power outage occurs. 

FEMA recommendations:

  • Talk to your doctor and make a plan for how you will continue using your medical devices that use electricity, store your medications, and stay safe during a power outage.
  • Take note of your medical device’s settings and instructions. When the power comes back, the settings on your device may have changed.
  • Make a plan for refrigerating medicines and powering medical devices.

What causes a power outage?

There can be a variety of factors that could cause a power outage including:

  • Severe weather/natural disasters
  • Motor vehicle accidents near lines
  • Equipment failure
  • Fallen trees
  • Wildlife interference
  • Power line damage from construction work
  • Damage from the public
  • High energy demand
  • Cyberattacks

Where can I find information about City of Ellensburg power outages?

Visit the City’s website or follow the City of Ellensburg on Facebook. Information about power outages will be posted as available. Note: Subscribing to the City's text or email Emergency Notifications alerts will include all emergency notifications and may be sent at any time of the day.

Where can I find information about a power outage if I don’t live in the City?

The City of Ellensburg does not have information about power outages that occur outside of the City. Contact your utility provider to report outages and to find out more information.   

Puget Sound Energy: 1-888-225-5773
Kittitas PUD: 509-260-2300
In case of an emergency, always call 9-1-1.

Prevent Outages To Your Home

Keep trees trimmed away from service lines that feed homes. Trimming trees around the service line is the customer's responsibility.

Electric lines from power pole to house showing utility or customer ownership