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Two balloons struck power lines during third day of Balloon Fiesta
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Two balloons hit power lines during the third day of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the Public Service Company of New Mexico said on Monday.
More than 60 customers were impacted by a power outage after balloons struck power lines, according to PNM spokesperson Eric Chavez.
Tom Garrity, spokesperson for the Balloon Fiesta, said there were no apparent injuries to any riders or crew members.
“We are not aware of any injuries as a result of this landing,” he said.
The first balloon hit a power line near Edith and Paseo. Chavez said 28 customers were affected by the outage that lasted roughly 30 minutes.
“Our crews responded alongside first responders,” he said. “We de-energized the line so that crews could get the balloon out safely.”
The second balloon, which landed near the 100 block of Roehl Road in Northwest Albuquerque, impacted 36 customers.
Chavez said the standard procedure is to turn off the power so crews and first responders can safely remove the balloon. PNM will inspect power lines to ensure they are not damaged before turning the power back on.
“Anytime people see a balloon or a power line, the best thing they can do is stay away, call 911 and call PNM,” he said. “That’s the safest thing that can be done.”
