Switchgear Restoration Following Hurricane Helene

Incident

A large office complex experienced both flooding and a subsequent fire in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Initially, floodwater infiltrated the building’s underground high-voltage electrical conduits. While systems appeared operational once the water receded, moisture that remained in the conduits, combined with a breach in the cable shielding, caused an electrical arc and a fire in the switchgear enclosure seven days later.

Challenges & Logistics

Since the event, the facility had been operating on limited generator power. Many of the electrical systems remained offline, and temporary power had to be sourced from unaffected office suites to support decontamination efforts. Additionally, the building remained open to tenants and businesses throughout the restoration.

The switchgear was impacted by water ingress, as well as smoke and soot contamination. Corrosion was also observed on exposed metal surfaces, further complicating the restoration process.

Outcome

AREPA was engaged to inspect and decontaminate the damaged switchgear to prepare it for testing and safe reenergization. Despite logistical challenges, the project was completed ahead of schedule. This allowed the insured to begin the process of fully restoring permanent electrical service to the facility, minimizing disruption to business operations.