The loss of four major transmission lines from Hawaiian Electric's Kahe power plant last night triggered an island-wide blackout, the utility said in a press release. At 9:15 p.m., HECO was advising customers to expect the outage to last at least through the night.

HECO said that at 6:30 p.m., the loss of power created instability on the system, which resulted in generating units tripping off in order to protect the grid from damage, One generating unit remained online serving the Waianae coast and Makakilo/Kapolei aras. However, that unit tripped off at about 8:30.

HECO was woking last night to restart its generators at Kahe and Waiau, a process called "black starting." The utility said power was to be restored beginning with areas on the west side of the island.

HECO provided the following tips for customers coping with the blackout:

_Use flashlights instead of candles as an open flame may create a fire hazard.

_ Limit calls to keep phone lines open. Stay tuned to local radio stations for updates.

_ Turn off and unplug any unecessay electrical equipment, especiallyt sensitive electronics. This will prevent damage tot he equipment from surges when power is restored.'

_A fully-stocked free-standing freezer wil keep most ood frozen fro up to 72 hours, if you don't open te door. Resist the urge to peek inside; each time you open the door, cold air gets out.

_ The freezer of a refrigerator-freezer will keep most foods frozen 10 to 24 hours. Again, try not to open the door as you'll let cold air out.