Hwy 121 Open After Downed Power Lines Shut It Down
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GRAPEVINE (CBSDFW.COM) - A lightning strike is suspected for causing a power line to fall into Highway 121 on Tuesday evening, creating a total shutdown of lanes in both directions.
The line caused a grass-fire and caused drivers to find alternative routes during rush-hour traffic.
Oncor crews believe the lightning strike occurred earlier in the day. Investigators are trying to figure out if it happened during the most recent storm that swept through the metroplex.
"It's crazy. I'm a little upset. I was expecting it to be a little quicker than this," said Landy Gholer, a driver.
The five-hour delay created quite the headache for folks just trying to get home from work.
"I'm trying to see where to go, what's the best route and I'm really confused," said Jewel Kollie, a driver.
The downed line not only created nightmare congestion on the roads, but many businesses near Grapevine Mills Mall went dark.
"When we were driving up, we were all, 'where are the people?' " questioned Lisa Peterson, who was trying to grab dinner.
Some restaurants were forced to closed early and posted signs for patrons. Others managed to reopen after a few hours, but not without consequences.
"We lost a lot of business. There were cars pulling in and out. There were people walking up to the door. We had to turn them away," said Tameron Crook, who manages a nearby Steak 'n Shake.
Oncor said 690 businesses lost power during the ordeal on Tuesday.
But all electricity was restored as of 9 p.m. and a spokesperson said Oncor is thankful there weren't any reports of injuries.
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