On Friday, December 19, shoppers at the Cherry Hill Mall in South Jersey were suddenly plunged into darkness as the mall’s lights went out. The outage occurred amid a storm of whipping winds that had already caused power disruptions across the Philadelphia region. The sudden loss of electricity left visitors scrambling for their phones and candles, while the mall’s emergency generators remained silent for a brief moment before the lights flickered back on.
Power Outage at Cherry Hill Mall
The blackout lasted roughly thirty minutes, a period during which the mall’s interior was illuminated only by the glow of shoppers’ mobile devices. According to a spokesperson for the mall, power was restored and the lights returned to full operation after approximately half an hour. The spokesperson did not comment on the exact cause of the outage, nor did they provide a timeline beyond the approximate thirty‑minute interval.
Whipping Winds and Regional Impact
The whipping winds that triggered the outage were part of a broader weather system affecting the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Power companies across the region reported outages in multiple towns and suburbs as the winds intensified. The Cherry Hill Mall was not the only commercial establishment to experience a loss of power; nearby businesses also reported brief interruptions that were resolved within a similar timeframe.
Video Footage Shows Dark Mall
Social media users shared videos that captured the interior of the mall in complete darkness. In the footage, a bright white light occasionally flashed, creating a stark contrast against the blackened storefronts and empty walkways. The videos circulated quickly online, providing a visual record of the moment when shoppers were forced to navigate a mall without electric lighting.
Mall Spokesperson Statement
When asked for comment, the mall’s spokesperson confirmed that the outage lasted about thirty minutes and that power was restored promptly thereafter. The spokesperson emphasized that no injuries were reported and that the mall’s safety protocols were activated during the incident. The spokesperson did not disclose any additional details about the cause of the outage or the specific equipment involved.
Recovery Timeline
The mall’s emergency lighting systems engaged immediately after the power loss, providing a dim glow that allowed shoppers to move safely through the aisles. Once the main power supply was reconnected, the lighting system transitioned back to normal operation within a few minutes. The mall’s management team monitored the restoration process closely, coordinating with local utility companies to ensure a swift return to full service.
No Report of Injuries
There were no reports of injuries or damage to property during the outage. The mall’s security personnel remained on duty, escorting visitors to safety and ensuring that no one was left stranded in the dark. The absence of injuries was highlighted by the spokesperson as a positive outcome of the mall’s preparedness and rapid response.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the outage has not yet been determined, and local authorities are still investigating the incident. Utility companies are reviewing system logs and wind data to identify any mechanical failures or external factors that may have contributed to the power loss. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the analysis progresses.
Regional Power Outages
The Cherry Hill Mall blackout was part of a series of power disruptions that affected several towns across the Philadelphia region. Power outages were reported in neighboring cities, with some residents experiencing brief blackouts lasting only a few minutes. The pattern of outages was consistent with the high winds reported by meteorological agencies, suggesting a weather‑related trigger.
Impact on Shoppers
Shoppers were forced to wait in dimly lit corridors, relying on their phones for light. Some customers reported that the sudden darkness caused confusion, especially for those with mobility aids. The mall’s staff guided visitors to the nearest exits and provided assistance to those who needed help finding their way.
Mall Services Disrupted
During the outage, several retail stores and food courts experienced temporary closures as their refrigeration units and point‑of‑sale systems lost power. The mall’s management coordinated with vendors to minimize service interruptions, and most businesses reopened once power was restored. The temporary disruption affected a handful of shoppers who had planned to make purchases.
Local Authorities Response
Local police and emergency services were on standby during the blackout, ready to assist if any incidents arose. The authorities confirmed that no emergencies were reported and that the mall’s evacuation plan was not activated. They praised the mall’s staff for maintaining order and ensuring visitor safety.
Safety Measures
The mall’s safety protocols include emergency lighting, fire suppression systems, and trained security personnel. During the outage, these systems remained operational, allowing the mall to maintain a safe environment for shoppers. The mall’s management highlighted that these measures were critical in preventing accidents during the darkness.
Future Precautions
Utility companies are reviewing infrastructure resilience in light of the recent wind‑related outages. The mall is exploring options to enhance its backup power capacity and improve its connection to the regional grid. Officials anticipate that these steps will reduce the likelihood of future disruptions during severe weather events.
Public Reaction
Social media posts from shoppers described the experience as unsettling, with many expressing relief when the lights returned. Some users shared tips for staying safe during power outages, such as keeping flashlights and batteries handy. The community’s response highlighted a collective appreciation for the mall’s swift restoration of power.
Community Response
Neighbors and local businesses are monitoring the situation closely, hoping that the investigation will clarify whether the wind conditions or other factors caused the outage. Residents are also discussing plans to improve their own emergency preparedness, including backup generators and battery storage. The incident has sparked a conversation about resilience in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Cherry Hill Mall power outage lasted about thirty minutes.
- Power restored promptly with no injuries reported.
- The outage was part of regional wind‑related disruptions.
Next Steps
Mall officials will continue to work with utility companies to ensure power stability. Updates will be posted on the mall’s website and social media channels as new information becomes available.
