Due to its inclement weather, the winter is the most hazardous season for utility poles. While it can be easy to overlook these common, yet fundamental elements on the road, it’s helpful to understand why they’re extra vulnerable during the cold months. Here’s a guide to the threats posed to utility poles when the weather reaches below average temperatures. 

3 Utility Pole Hazards in the Winter

1. Errant Driving

Due to poor visibility and slick roads, it’s challenging to drive during the winter season. These factors lead to auto accidents by causing drivers to swerve off the road to avoid a collision, hitting a utility pole in the process. While a firmly anchored pole may survive the impact, a poorly installed one may collapse, creating the possibility of an electrical fire and utility loss. With utility poles harder to spot among the falling snow, there’s also a higher chance that drivers may simply crash into them. 

2. Fallen Trees

Due to the heavy snowfall and swirling gusts of wind, it’s not uncommon to see many fallen trees after a snowstorm. If a tree is only a few feet away from a power line, it could strike the pole when it falls, creating a chain reaction where the utility falls as well. A strong anchoring and well-dug hole can minimize the risk of such an incident.

3. Severe Winds

Strong gusts of wind can hurt more than just tree branches. Rickety utility poles that already have a lean, or ones that are weakened with age, will be susceptible to falling with constant exposure to harsh winds. While it’s always a danger if electrical poles fall, there’s an added risk if they tumble over the road.

With the right utility pole specialist on your side, you can prevent utility and electrical poles around your property from falling during the winter. The professional team at The Hole Works in Cattaraugus County, NY, take every precaution to ensure that the holes they drill are up to code. When they install the electric or utility pole, it’s completely snug and secure. Call (716) 676-3998 or visit their website to learn more about their hole drilling services.