A large power outage hit the Helena area just before noon on Thursday.
According to NorthWestern Energy , outages have been reported in Helena, East Helena, and north into the Helena Valley. NorthWestern Energy representatives say about 12,000 customers are affected by the outage.
NorthWestern Energy says the outage is related to a transmission issues. Spokeswoman Jo Dee Black says crews are on scene and working to restore power.
They hope to have power restored to most areas by 2:30 pm.
The Helena-Lewis and Clark 911 Center said on Facebook that it was being swamped with calls and urged residents to only call 911 if there is a true emergency.
REMINDER: If traffic signals are not working, drivers should treat the intersection as a complete stop in all directions.
