WASHINGTON, PA — March 13th — A portion of Route 40 close to East Maiden was closed as a result of the South Strabane Fire Department's response to a utility incident. Numerous utility poles and power lines were down along Route 40 between Interstate 79 and the Kopper Kettle region, close to the boundary between Amwell Township and South Strabane Township, according to officials.

The route was blocked to all traffic while personnel worked to secure the area because of the danger posed by the downed lines. While utility workers from West Penn Power arrived to inspect and fix the damaged wires, firefighters helped with traffic control and scene safety. The reaction was also aided by mutual assistance organizations including the Amwell Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Lone Pine Volunteer Fire Department.