PPL Electric Utilities is assessing and responding to damage to its electric delivery system reportedly caused Wednesday afternoon by a runaway military blimp.
The trailing tether line of the blimp, which broke free from the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, reportedly caused damage to multiple electrical system facilities in Columbia and Schuylkill counties.
The utility was working to switch many affected customers to other circuits, restoring power. It has not yet been determined how long repairs will take.
"We will work as quickly and safely as possible to repair the damage and restore all service," said Dave Bonenberger, vice president-Distribution Operations.
As of 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, about 17,800 customers were without power in Columbia County, with another 9,000 out in Schuylkill County.
