The Big Take
Unpredictable Power Surges Threaten US Grid — And Your Home
The US power grid is struggling to maintain an even flow of electricity — and putting homes at risk.
As the US grid comes under increasing stress, power quality problems and sudden surges of voltage are getting much worse.
Photographer: Naureen Malik/BloombergPaul LeBlanc was barefoot when he stepped outside that morning.
He was taking the trash out when he saw the red glow of flames engulfing a nearby home. A former firefighter, LeBlanc grabbed his shoes before racing across the street. He smashed a window, then rushed inside. The only person believed to be home was a teenage boy who had already escaped, luckily with just minor burns. Alarms blared “fire” loudly, again and again, blasting from homes through the area.