SUV crash in Valley Center knocks out power to more than 1500 homes and businesses

VALLEY CENTER - An SUV struck a power pole in Valley Center today, which knocked out electrical service to more than 1,500 homes and businesses and prompted authorities to close the roadway in the area.

The driver of a GMC Yukon crashed into the pole on Valley Center Road near Sunset Road about 12:15 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol. The driver was not injured.

The crash knocked out power to 1,523 San Diego Gas & Electric customers in Valley Center, Rincon, Pauma Valley, Lake Wohlford, Bear Valley, Skyline Ranch, Rincon, the La Jolla Indian Reservation and Hellhole Canyon, according to the utility. Service was restored to all but 302 customers by about 4:45 p.m., according to SDG&E officials.

Crews expected to have the electricity back on for 272 of the impacted customers in Valley Center, Rincon and Pauma Valley by about 4:45 p.m., and to the remaining 30 shortly after 6 p.m., according to SDG&E officials.

Valley Center Road was closed in both directions between Mactan and Sunset roads, according to the county's Department of Public Works. A SigAlert was issued.