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Power surge results in power outages, damaged appliances in Westmoreland Co.

WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Pa. — An overnight power surge in Westmoreland County that rendered household appliances useless and left residents in the dark for hours continues to cause problems.

"This one, it caught a lot of homes," said Joe Banks, an electrician.

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Fire crews and West Penn Power have received calls throughout the day Friday for power outages and reports of burning smells and fried appliances. 
Hundreds of homes were affected by the surge in areas including Irwin, North Huntingdon and West Hempfield Township.

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"I saw four splashing lights; on and off, on and off and then a big boom. I could smell something burning," said Carol Williamson, of West Hempfield. "Very scary, I was scared to death because I thought I might have a fire."

Officials said the surge was caused by a tree that fell onto a 25,000 volt line, which then fell onto a 12,000 volt residential line, overcharging the grid.

Residents whose appliances were damaged or destroyed as a result of the surge can file a claim with West Penn Power, which will then make a determination as to whether the customer can receive any compensation.