Overnight wind storm causes dangerous arcing, prompts evacuations in Clinton

CLINTON, Ill. (WAND) — Strong winds caused a dangerous overnight electrical emergency in Clinton after a tree fell onto power lines, sparking intense arcing and forcing evacuations in a residential neighborhood.

Clinton firefighters were called out at 10:32 p.m. Sunday to the area of Adams Street and Walnut Street for reports of an electrical emergency in the roadway.

When Engine Company 2 arrived, crews found a fallen tree resting on transmission lines, causing powerful electrical arcing in the street.

Firefighters said the arcing produced significant fire and smoke, raising concerns for nearby homes as wind gusts reached up to 45 miles per hour. They quickly evacuated residents from the immediate area as a safety precaution.

Clinton School District bus services responded promptly to provide shelter for evacuees while crews worked to secure the scene.

Due to the severity of the incident, a first-alarm assignment was issued, placing fire departments from Maroa, Kenney, Wapella, and Waynesville on standby in Clinton in case conditions worsened.

While managing the Walnut Street emergency, Clinton firefighters also responded to three additional calls across the city, including two reports of smoke inside homes and another electrical emergency on East South Street.

Ameren crews arrived at the Walnut Street scene and shut off power to the affected lines, allowing firefighters to safely manage the situation. Officials say no injuries were reported and no personal property damage occurred.

Fire crews cleared the scene around 1:30 a.m. Monday. Ameren continues working to restore electricity in the area, and street closures are expected as crews repair damage to the roadway.

Windy but returning to quiet conditions this afternoon

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