Approximately 10-20% of U.S. power outages are caused by squirrels.

Approximately 10-20% of U.S. power outages are caused by squirrels.

Squirrels and their partners in crime cause about 10-20 percent of all power outages, according to the Washington Post. Squirrel-induced power outages tend to be more localized and more quickly fixed than those caused by storms, since one little rodent can only chew so much.

Nearly 20 percent of weather-related outages were caused by cold weather and ice storms, and another 18 percent were caused by hurricanes and tropical storms. Only 3 percent of outages were caused by tornadoes, and 2 percent were caused by a combination of extreme heat events and wildfires.

OTrivia. One Of The Most Frequent Causes Of Power Outages In The U.S. Is? There are dramatic things that cause power outages: exploding substations, ice storms that cripple the entire Eastern seaboard, and heat waves that engulf the country and place enormous air conditioner-driven strain on the power grid.

Problem Species

Squirrels. Responsible for the greatest number of substation outages across the U.S., squirrels enter substations in search of shelter and warmth—and possess the instinct to remember the best nesting sites. ... 

Snakes. ... 

Birds.

. Storms: Wind, heat, ice and snow are the most common causes of widespread power outages. 2. Trees: During high winds, or trimming by an untrained professional, limbs can come into contact with power lines and cause interruptions.

While storms and wind are the number one cause of electrical outages, our furry friends can certainly hold their own. Over one thousand outages can happen yearly due animal related failures. In fact, 11 percent of all outages are caused by squirrels.

Momentary Outages

 Short circuits happen when something, such as a tree limb, comes into contact with power lines or when the lines touch each other. When a short circuit occurs, a safety device called a breaker automatically deenergizes the circuit and interrupts the flow of power.

Steps You Need To Take When Your Power Goes Out

Check The Circuit Breakers. Always check the circuit breakers first. ... 

Check-In With Neighbors. ... 

Call The Power Company. ... 

Stay Warm. ... 

Preserve Food. ... 

Food Preparation. ... 

Unplug Major Appliances. ... 

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