Great Falls, Mont. – Residents of central Great Falls should mark their calendars for a brief, overnight power interruption on the night of September 16. NorthWestern Energy announced that the outage will run from midnight to 5 a.m., giving crews a window to replace substation equipment that has reached the end of its useful life.
Who will be affected
The utility said the work will impact customers generally located north of 10th Avenue South to 3rd Avenue South and west of 16th Street South to 3rd Street South. Those in the defined area can expect a temporary loss of electricity during the five‑hour window.
How to stay informed
NorthWestern Energy will send an automated phone call to each affected account before the outage begins. The company urges customers to verify that the phone number on file is current so they receive the notice and any later updates. Account holders can check or update their contact information through the My Energy Account portal or by calling customer service at 888‑467‑2669.
Why the outage is necessary
Replacing aging substation components is a proactive step to maintain reliable electric service for Great Falls residents. The utility explained that the equipment in question is nearing the end of its service life, and delaying replacement could increase the risk of unplanned outages or service disruptions later in the year.
What homeowners can do
While the outage is brief, families are encouraged to prepare by charging essential devices, setting clocks ahead, and arranging alternative lighting or heating if needed. Those who rely on medical equipment that requires electricity should make special arrangements with a neighbor or a backup power source.
NorthWestern Energy’s commitment to the community
NorthWestern Energy has a long history of serving Montana’s electric customers, and the company emphasizes its commitment to keeping the grid safe and dependable. By scheduling the work during low‑usage overnight hours, the utility aims to minimize inconvenience while ensuring the infrastructure can meet future demand.
For additional details or to report any concerns during the outage, residents can contact NorthWestern Energy’s customer service line or visit the company’s website.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
