Why do outages happen?

Modern Electric Water Company works year-round to provide reliable electric and water service. While outages are uncommon, they can occur unexpectedly due to weather, equipment failures, wildlife, vehicle accidents or planned maintenance. Water outages may also occur because of water main breaks, equipment failures or necessary repairs to the water distribution system.

The most common causes of power outages include:

• 🐿 Wildlife: Squirrels account for nearly 45% of electric outages on Modern’s system.
• 🌬️ Severe weather: High winds, ice, snow and lightning can damage electric equipment.
• 🚗 Vehicle accidents: Vehicles striking utility poles can interrupt service.
• 🌳 Trees and vegetation: Falling trees and limbs can damage power lines during storms.
• ⚡ Equipment failures: Like any infrastructure, electrical equipment occasionally fails and must be repaired or replaced.
• 👷 Planned maintenance: Occasionally, planned outages are necessary to safely perform maintenance or system improvements.

The most common causes of water outages include:

• 💧 Water main breaks: Aging infrastructure, freezing temperatures or shifting ground can occasionally cause water main breaks that interrupt service.
• 🔧 Equipment failures: Pumps, valves and other equipment occasionally require repair or replacement.
• 👷 Planned maintenance: Water service may be temporarily interrupted while crews safely perform maintenance or improve the water system.
• 🚧 Construction damage: Excavation and other construction activities can accidentally damage underground water lines.