Boston Power Outage: Latest Updates and What Residents Need to Know

Boston residents faced significant disruptions on Wednesday afternoon as a widespread power outage plunged key neighborhoods into darkness. Understanding how the Boston power outage unfolded and what steps you can take next will ensure you stay informed and prepared.

What Happened During the Boston Power Outage?

Early Wednesday afternoon, more than 27,000 Eversource customers in Boston lost power unexpectedly. Areas affected included Columbia Point near the JFK Library, Dorchester, the Back Bay, South Boston, and the South End. The outage was traced back to a substation issue at Andrews Square, leading to widespread blackouts and the disruption of daily life.

Local news reported that Boston police stations at several districts and multiple Boston Public School buildings experienced power loss. Even traffic signals in several neighborhoods went dark, adding to the chaos for residents and commuters.

Response and Restoration Efforts

Eversource, the primary electric utility provider, responded quickly to the incident. By 4 p.m., the number of affected customers had dropped from over 27,000 to about 3,000, thanks to swift restoration actions. According to MassLive, Eversource estimated full restoration within a few hours and kept residents updated via their outage map.

The power outage caused significant, if short-lived, disruption. City officials and first responders worked closely with the utility company to ensure essential services and critical infrastructure were prioritized.

Areas and Services Affected

The severity of the Boston power outage meant that a wide range of services were temporarily impacted. According to a report from WCVB, Boston Public Schools lost power in multiple buildings, affecting communications throughout the district. Several Boston Police precincts also reported outages, adding strain to public safety efforts. Fortunately, major transit hubs such as Logan Airport remained unaffected, and the MBTA did not report power-related delays.

Tips for Residents During a Power Outage

When a major outage happens, it’s helpful to know the best practices for safety and comfort:

• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges.
• Avoid using candles; opt for battery-powered lights instead.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food.
• Stay informed by following official updates from local news outlets and authorities.
• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with medical needs.

Conclusion: Staying Prepared for Future Outages

The recent Boston power outage highlights the importance of staying informed and prepared for unexpected disruptions. Thanks to the efforts of utility workers and city officials, most residents saw their power restored in a timely fashion. Keep these tips in mind and follow local updates to stay safe during any future outages.

For the latest and most detailed coverage, see comprehensive reports from WCVB, MassLive, and NBC Boston.