The town will experience a planned power outage on February 26, 2025.
The outage is planned because several problem trees must be removed to ensure they don’t later fall onto the transmission lines coming into the town. There will be no power within the city limits during this time.
The Highlands Police Department wants to remind residents and visitors that the traffic lights will also be out. NC General Statute 20-158 (b) (6) states:
“When a traffic signal is not illuminated due to a power outage or other malfunction, vehicles shall approach the intersection and proceed through the intersection as though such intersection is controlled by a stop sign on all approaches to the intersection. This subdivision shall not apply if the movement of traffic at the intersection is being directed by a law enforcement officer, another authorized person, or another type of traffic control device.”
In short, all traffic must come to a complete stop at the intersection, and all vehicles must take turns proceeding through the intersection.
The Highlands Police Department asks for your assistance during this outage to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.