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Solo crash leaves thousands powerless in Mission Valley area

Posted at 6:22 AM, Feb 25, 2017
and last updated 2017-02-25 14:11:14-05

SAN DIEGO - About 3,700 hundred people were without power this morning in multiple communities around Mission Valley, after a vehicle drove into a power pole.

San Diego police said the driver was heading south on Health Center Drive when they collided with the power pole, snapping it in half. 

The driver had only minor injuries, but their vehicle had to be towed. Police said speed may have been a factor. They do not suspect alcohol or drugs were involved.

Early this morning, 10News was at the scene as power lines were left dangling and a portion of the pole was hanging over a fence. SDG&E crews were working to restore power. As of 6 a.m., the company's online outage map showed power was nearly restored to the area.

Crews estimated it will take 10-12 hours to repair the downed line. Underground power lines have also become a factor to consider, crews said.

Residences in Clairemont, Linda Vista, Mission Valley, Kearney Mesa, and Tierrasanta were affected.

Sharp Memorial Hospital was partially affected as well, but was able to switch breakers and use generators to continue operating.

Crews have closed Health Center Dr. and the on-ramp to State route 163 on Genesee  Ave. as they clear the scene. Access to area hospitals is still open.

California Highway Patrol issued a Sig Alert just before 9 a.m. for SR-163 at Genesee Ave., as crews work to repair the downed pole.