Residents of East Hampton woke up on Wednesday to a widespread power outage after a sudden surge damaged electrical systems in multiple homes. The town confirmed that the surge was likely caused by an apparent malfunction with the local utility, Eversource.

Utility response and inspection process

Eversource crews, together with members of the East Hampton Volunteer Fire Department, have been going door‑to‑door to assess whether internal wiring was harmed. The town’s Facebook post explained that inspections must be completed before power can be safely turned back on. Homeowners may decline an inspection, but the town warned that doing so means any restored power will be at the homeowner’s own risk.

“In all cases, any damage to wires internally will initially be the responsibility of the property owner, but a claim may be made with Eversource online,” the town wrote.

Scope of the outage

The surge affected properties along Hog Hill Road, Terp Road and Schoolhouse Lane. According to East Hampton Fire Chief Christopher Hatch, power was shut off to roughly 3,000 homes to contain the event. By Wednesday morning, 41 homes still remained without electricity.

Guidance for generators

Eversource also cautioned residents with backup generators not to operate them until the internal wiring has been inspected and cleared. Using a generator on potentially damaged circuits could create additional hazards.

Next steps

Eversource plans to stay in the area until power is restored to all affected streets and each home has either been inspected or offered an inspection. The town urges residents to cooperate with the inspection teams so that power can be safely returned as quickly as possible.

For updates, homeowners can follow the Town of East Hampton’s official Facebook page or contact the town’s public works department directly.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.