Transformer malfunction causes power outage at Rochester General Hospital
An overheated transformer at Rochester General Hospital temporarily knocked out power in some parts of the hospital early Friday morning.
According to Rochester Regional Health, a fire alarm was activated at the hospital, 1425 Portland Ave., around 12:45 a.m. After firefighters arrived and investigated, they determined there was not a fire in the building, but did find smoke in the basement-level mechanical room where the transformer was located.
Because of the incident, the hospital lost power in some areas, which caused the hospital's generator power to turn on. No patients or staff members were "at risk" due to the incident, and no one was moved or evacuated, according to hospital officials.
The hospital’s emergency department went on diversion for several hours overnight to slow the influx of patients, according to hospital officials. Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. was also at the scene to transition the hospital from generator power.
According to hospital officials, the incident did not impact any scheduled surgeries or procedures. It also did not impact visiting hours for Friday.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Rochester General Hospital power outage caused by transformer malfunction
