A disruption in the electricity supply affecting the Silver Spring, Maryland area is an interruption to the normal flow of power to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. These incidents can range from brief flickers to extended periods without electrical service, impacting daily life and economic activity. Factors contributing to these events may include severe weather, equipment failure, or planned maintenance.
The significance of maintaining a reliable electrical grid stems from its critical role in supporting modern society. Interruption can cause widespread inconvenience, potential safety hazards (e.g., loss of heating or cooling, inoperable medical equipment), and economic losses for businesses. Historically, these events have prompted investments in grid hardening, improved emergency response protocols, and proactive tree trimming near power lines to minimize future occurrences.