The Guam Power Authority said that power outages and fluctuation are expected during Typhoon Champi's passage. Though GPA does not intend to shut down the Island-wide Power System, a safety mechanism of the system "automatically," kicks in.
"And only shuts down power service to residents and businesses when damage has occurred to any of the respective power circuits or feeders," GPA said.
As long as the circuits or feeders remain intact, the IWPS will continue to be energized.
GPA said as damaging winds draw closer to Guam, and power outages occur, work will be done to "energize it immediately."
"If power doesn't return in a few minutes, it is most likely that the circuit/feeder is damaged and GPA will have to wait until the typhoon passes before it can make repairs. The GPA team is prepared to immediately begin restoration as soon as winds decrease to safe levels," the release said.
If a power emergency arises during the storm such as "down energized (sparking) lines, damaged poles or blown transformers," GPA's Trouble Dispatchers will be on standby to take reports from ratepayers.
"Please stay away from all down lines and equipment as they may still be energized and can cause harm if you come in contact with the lines or equipment," GPA said.
To report such conditions, contact GPA's 24-Hour Trouble Dispatch at 671-457-1472/3/4 or direct message GPA's Facebook account.
"Please provide exact location or address, contact information and condition of location," GPA said encouraging the community to "stay safe and secure."
This storm watch update is brought to you by senatorial candidates Clynt Ridgell, "Let's Grow Guam Together"; Sabrina Salas Matanane, "Bri the Difference"; and Chief Energy Partners, "Your Power. Your Terms. Your Lifestyle." Special thanks to sponsors Donna Muna Quinata, "Driven to Serve"; Burger King; and MacTech Guam.