Joint Release From:
Putnam County BOCC
Putnam County Sheriff’s Office
Putnam County Fire/Rescue
City of Palatka
Palatka Police Department
Palatka Fire Department
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Barge Hits Power Lines in St. Johns River, FPL Working to Reroute Power
PALATKA, Fla., June 17, 2021 -- At 9:30 a.m. this morning, barge carrying a crane hit Florida Power and Light power lines that cross the St. Johns River just south of Palatka, causing power outages in the city of Palatka. Power was restored at 10:04 a.m.
FPL customers may see rolling power outages throughout the afternoon while power is rerouted from other substations. These outages should last no longer than an hour. The entire city of Palatka should not lose power at the same time again.
FPL does not anticipate any further outages by tomorrow morning.
Starting at 1 p.m., Crill Ave. will be closed from South State Rd. 19 to South Palm Avenue. Be aware that there will be an increased presence of law enforcement in this area directing traffic at that time. Plan to use alternate routes around the area.
All boat traffic is prohibited from the Palatka city docks to Browns Landing while crews work to get the lines grounded. Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and Putnam County Fire/Rescue boats will be in the area.
There are multiple rumors on social media. Be advised that any legitimate information will come directly from official government outlets and FPL.
For any further question, you can reach out the Putnam County Emergency Management by calling 386-329-0379 or emailing emergency.management@putnam-fl.com.
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