LEWISTON, ID –  Power has been restored to more than 5,500 Clearwater Power members, though approximately 5,300 members remain without electricity as crews continue restoration efforts following widespread storm damage, according to an update released Friday morning.

Clearwater Power said many of the remaining affected members have been without service for about three days. High winds, saturated ground conditions, and fallen trees caused extensive damage across the utility’s system, which serves some of the most rural areas in the region. The cooperative maintains more than 3,000 miles of power lines, averaging three to four members per mile.

Utility officials said progress has been made, but weather conditions have continued to create challenges. Snowfall and renewed strong winds overnight slowed repair efforts and caused additional outages, including downed power lines across roadways that crews must prioritize for safety.

Crews, including Clearwater Power linemen, contracted line workers, field engineers, and vegetation management teams, resumed work early Friday in multiple locations. Planned work areas include regions north of Moscow toward Viola and east toward Troy, Idaho; Rattlesnake Grade toward Flora and Troy, Oregon; Anatone and Cloverland in Washington; Soldiers Meadow and the Craigmont area; areas north of Orofino; and the Emida and Fernwood areas.

Clearwater Power reported that all substations have now been energized. Restoration efforts are moving outward from substations along transmission and distribution lines before work begins on individual service lines. Transmission and distribution lines serving the largest number of members are addressed first, followed by service lines connecting power directly to homes and businesses.

The utility noted that its outage map may not fully reflect current conditions due to the scale of damage and system communication issues. Manual updates are being made when possible, and members are encouraged to monitor Clearwater Power’s website and social media channels for updates.

Clearwater Power reminded the public to remain cautious around downed power lines, advising residents to assume all downed lines are energized and to avoid driving over or near them. Members can report outages through SmartHub or by calling 208-743-1501.