Overnight storms left dozens of downed limbs and damaged power lines across Topeka, producing outages that affected thousands of customers early Thursday and triggered a series of emergency responses by local crews.
The Topeka Fire Department logged multiple storm-related calls before and after dawn, responding to reports of trees and branches on power lines and at least one tree fire against a utility pole.
What changed for residents
As of early Thursday afternoon, utility crews had restored power for many customers, but hundreds remained without service. Traffic signals were reported flashing at intersections shortly after 5 a.m., increasing the risk of delays and collisions during the morning commute.
- More than 6,000 customers in Shawnee County were reported without power in the first reports early Thursday.
- Crews worked through the morning to restore service and clear roadways blocked by fallen trees.
- Residents should treat intersections with flashing signals as four-way stops and avoid downed power lines.
Where crews worked
Callouts occurred across the city. The following locations were included in early incident reports:
| Location | Reported time | Problem |
|---|---|---|
| S.W. 19th St. & McAlister Ave. | About 5:45 a.m. | Tree limbs on power lines |
| S.E. 11th St. & Washington St. | About 5:45 a.m. | Tree limbs on power lines |
| 1400 block S.W. MacVicar Ave. | Thursday morning | Downed trees blocking roadway |
| 1700 block S.W. Burnett Rd. | Around 6:00 a.m. | Large branch on power line |
| S.W. Hillside & Kansas Ave. | About 6:09 a.m. | Tree fell onto lines |
| N.W. Gordon & Clay St. | About 6:15 a.m. | Tree burning against power pole |
| N.W. Geronimo Trail (4500 block) | About 6:16 a.m. | Power line arcing after limb fall |
| 1900 block S.W. Collins Ave. | About 9:45 a.m. | Tree on power line |
"More than 6,000 customers were reported to be without power"
The offices of local utilities and emergency services worked in coordination with crews across northeast Kansas to restore service where possible. Work included removing branches from lines, securing downed lines, and clearing blocked roadways.
Safety guidance and next steps
Officials advise residents to avoid any downed wires and to assume they are live. Motorists should use extra caution at intersections where traffic signals are out or flashing. Customers still without power should contact their utility provider for updates and estimated restoration times.
Crews remained on duty throughout the morning and into the afternoon to address remaining outages and hazards. The city continues to monitor conditions and will update the public as work progresses.
