A snapped utility pole threw power lines across a downtown Hemet roadway Thursday, prompting a full closure of the corridor.
The downed pole was reported about 12:45 p.m. on State Street, near Fruitvale Avenue, according to the Hemet Fire Department.
Because of the public safety hazard, firefighters and police officers shut down State between Fruitvale and Esplanade Avenue, a roughly half-mile stretch.
There was no word on why the pole broke in two. However, in the previous two days, strong easterly winds impacted the entire Hemet Valley, with periodic gusts in excess of 40 mph.
Traffic on State was being diverted onto other north- and southbound streets as part of the detour, according to the fire department.