Power Outage Shuts Downtown New Hope PA for Three Hours

By Charlie Sahner

A power outage struck downtown New Hope today for three hours following the arrival of a thunderstorm with high winds at around 3:00 p.m. Facebook user "Wedgwood Inn" reported that "a lightening strike on a utility pole and electrical wires near Aquatong and 202 did the deed."

In a recorded message, PECO indicated that 703 customers were affected. Many stores, restaurants and events were forced to shut down, and groups of bored, worried merchants could be seen chatting between darkened storefronts.

Some businesses like Gerenser's Ice Cream remained open, owing to a large portable electric generator. Outside the town's center, businesses like McDonalds hummed along unfazed.

Fortunately, the storm brought with it cooler, more comfortable temperatures.