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Grid infrastructureUnited StatesEIR-2247

Transformer fire at Memphis substation causes large power outage

2021Published 12 Oct 2026Responsible editor: Chief Editor

SignificantThermal / fireProvisionalNext update 13 Oct
Estimated damageModelled by the register's adjusterHow? Know the real figure?
Figure hidden: shown to subscribersLow confidence
supply cut for about •• daysShown in the record →Full estimate
From the recordFailed part hidden

Companies named in this entry: Memphis Light Gas and Water

What happened

Action News 5 reported on 29 September 2021 that a transformer fire at a Memphis Light Gas and Water (MLGW) substation was causing a major power outage in the Raleigh area of Memphis. The report, updated at 4:59 AM CDT on 29 September 2021, described the outage as ongoing. It does not give when the fire started, its cause, the number of customers affected, the time power was restored, or whether anyone was hurt. The account rests on a single local television report.

Lessons learned

  1. A single transformer fire at a substation can cut power to a large area, so grid operators should map which customers depend on each transformer and plan for alternative supply.
  2. Continuous monitoring of transformer condition, such as temperature and dissolved gas analysis, can give early warning of faults that may lead to fire.
  3. Utilities should prepare public communication and restoration plans in advance so that customers receive timely information about the expected duration of an outage.

More lessons on outages, backup supply and restoration, detection and monitoring, from every incident on the register.

Source

actionnews5.com

Other entries that name Memphis

Published 2026-10-12. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.

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