MONROE — An "extensive" power outage across the city midday Thursday was caused by a piece of heavy construction equipment hitting a high-voltage electrical line, according to Monroe Fire Chief Dan Smits.

Power was still out at about 1 p.m. Thursday, including at Monroe Clinic. 

Alliant Energy crews were prioritizing restoring power to the hospital first, Smits said. Meanwhile, the Clinic was able to switch to a backup power source.

The accident happened shortly before noon on Wisconsin 11/81, near 14th Avenue. A piece of heavy equipment on the highway construction project hit a high-voltage electrical line, causing the line to fall across the highway. Another line was also damaged. 

Reached by phone at about 12:45 p.m. at the accident scene, Smits said no injuries were reported.

"I know the power is out in an extensive part of the city," he said.