Ice Buildup Threatens Power Lines in Arkhangelsk Oblast

Power lines in Mzensk district are accumulating dangerous amounts of ice. The wires may not withstand the heavy load and break. This was reported by the Arkhangelsk Oblast Agency for State Fire Service and Civil Protection.

«4 February is expected to see an increase to dangerous levels: complex ice-rime deposits of 35 mm or more. This phenomenon is considered dangerous for power lines. Rime increases the weight of wires, causes critical loads, and can lead to damage to power lines. Also, in strong winds, wires can swing and collide with each other, which can cause them to slap together, melt, or even break. Additionally, the line may trip when the deposit melts, when the wire suddenly relieves of load and «jumps»,» the agency reported.

Ice-rime deposits form in freezing foggy weather on tree branches, wires, and cables of overhead power lines. When deposits layer on each other, they are called complex.

Recall that on 2 February, in the Pinezhsky and Kholmogorsky districts of Pomor region, a massive emergency power outage occurred. 9,171 houses were left without power, as well as 85 socially significant facilities, including schools, kindergartens, and boiler houses. Some northerners reported that heating and water supply also disappeared in the settlements.

The accident happened due to bad weather conditions. The problem occurred on the line between Ugzenga and the village of Siya.