Avista Is Prepared for Incoming Windstorm

Power outages are expected as a windstorm moves through the region.

Spokane, Wash. Dec. 16, 2025: Strong winds are forecast to begin early Tuesday night and continue through Wednesday morning across Avista's Washington and Idaho service area. Saturated soil from recent rain, combined with strong winds, increases the likelihood of outages caused by falling trees and limbs, which can bring down power lines. Avista is prepared to respond and urges customers to prepare for potential storm damage and outages.

Avista continues to monitor the National Weather Service forecasts closely. Crews are ready with fueled and stocked fleet vehicles, warehouse supplies are in place in Spokane and outer offices, and assessment teams are standing by. Wire guard teams are prepared to help ensure public safety near downed power lines, tree crews are mobilized, and employees are moving from their typical day-to-day responsibilities to assist in storm-related activities.

With sustained winds expected, estimated restoration times are not likely to be available until the storm has passed and Avista can complete damage assessments. This process may take 24 hours or more, depending on the extent of the damage. Customers can view current outage numbers on the outage map at myavista.com/outage. Initially, the estimated restoration times will indicate that outages are under assessment. As assessments are completed and more information becomes available, estimated restoration times will be updated on the outage map.

Reporting an outage
Customers who experience a power outage are encouraged to report it online or through their mobile device at myavista.com/outage or by calling (800) 227-9187. Updated outage status information, including estimated restoration times when available, is also posted on Avista's website. Customers can also follow Avista's Facebook and Twitter accounts for additional updates.

Safety during a power outage
Avista suggests customers take the following steps during an outage:

• Turn off all the appliances that were on before the power went out.

• Unplug electronic equipment, including computers.

• Leave a light or radio on as an alert when power has been restored.

• Help Avista crews working in a neighborhood know which homes have power by turning on the front porch light.

• Do not wire an emergency generator into a home's electrical system, unless there is a disconnect switch to separate generated power from Avista's distribution system. Back feed into power lines could injure or kill a lineman working to get electricity restored.

• Use a generator only to run specific appliances and locate it outside so poisonous carbon monoxide fumes do not enter the home.

Watch this video for more information on Avista's outage restoration process. Call 911 and Avista immediately at (800) 227-9187 to report the location of a downed power line and if you smell natural gas.

Contact:
David Vowels, (509)495-7956, [email protected]
Avista 24/7 Media Access (509) 495-4174