BARSTOW, CA. (Pain In The Pass) >> A broken power pole was reported hit by lightning next to Interstate 15 in the city of Barstow Sunday morning.  (Photo above is credit by Ericson Ramos)

According to Barstow Police, California Highway Patrol, and Barstow Fire Department the power pole is near the northbound I-15 L Street onramp. Its reported about 11am August 20,2023, of a transformer was struck by a bolt of lightning, causing the electrical pole to snap at the top and catch on fire. This cause the power to be off for some of residents in town.

The power lines are hanging low over the 15 freeway, this prompt a full freeway closures in both directions at L Street.

Power company says a reminded to stay away from downed power lines and report outages as soon as they happen.

No injuries have been reported at this time.

Please use a alternate route like for southbound I-15 use old Highway 58 to new Hwy 58 or Main Street to L Street to the 15 freeway.

Northbound I-15 use new Highway 58 to Main St. back on the freeway. Or take Hwy 58 to Lenwood Rd north to Old Hwy 58 to the 15 freeway.

Check back for updates on the closure. At this time there is no estimated time for reportioning.

Update power was restored by 3pm.

Update 2 at 5pm freeway in both directions is back open.

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