Storm causing downed trees, fires, outages
CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 months, 4 weeks AGO
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | May 28, 2026 10:11 PM
Severe thunderstorms moving across the region have caused multiple downed trees, damage and several outages.
In Sandpoint, Sandpoint Fire and mutual aid from Northside and Selkirk Fire responded a structure fire at a multi-family dwelling in the 1600 block of Pine Street as well as another possible fire in the 100 block of N. Lincoln. Multiple accidents throughout the county with downed trees and powerlines reported.
Sandpoint Mayor Jeremy Grimm said he was monitoring the activity and noted reports of accidents, blown transformers, brush and structure fire.
"I'm so grateful for our first responders, fire and police," Grimm said. "I can hardly imagine what this could have looked like in mid-August with tinder dry conditions."
Grimm praised the response by Bonner Dispatch crews.
"What a crazy night," he said. "I'm so impressed with dispatch being able to filter and manage calls across the area ... cool and calm. What professionals."
Northern Lights and Avista crews are responding in their respective coverage areas and will work to make repairs as it is safe to do so, per the utilities' social media sites.
There are currently 170 outages, affecting 17,216 customers, reported by Avista; and Northern Lights is reporting to multiple and widespread outages throughout its coverage area.
Both Avista and Northern Lights crews are responding, and as it is safe to do so, making needed repairs and working to restore power.
Residents are reminded to stay away from downed power lines.
For Northern Lights, report outages or damage at 1-866-665-4837.
For Avista, customers can report a power outage online or through their mobile device at myavista.com/outage or by calling (800) 227-9187. They can also download the mobile app for reporting. Registered customers can also text “OUT” to AVISTA (284-782) or STAT to get current status. To register, text “REG” to AVISTA (284-782). The phone number must match the number on the account.
A screenshot showing the location of outages in the Avista Utilities coverage area.ARTICLES BY CAROLINE LOBSINGER
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