Why doesn't the govt insist that existing utility lines be placed underground to save lives in severe weather?

Answer 1

Because it would cost too much.

Some cities do require this for local power lines. Partly because it looks nicer, partly because they can make developers pay for it.

But for the big long distance lines, it's too expensive.

Answer 2

Have you done any research into the properties of electricity? Do you know what happens when you "ground" a power source? Are you aware of the ramifications of a "grounded" power line?

Assuming you know all of these things, you would begin to have an inkling as to why putting these electrical lines underground is a very bad idea. First, the line would have to be GROSSLY insulated. Second, if this line were to be ruptured, you risk having an ignition source for a gas line. Third, do you know the cost of burying cables? And digging them back up every time you need to do work on them? Not cheap, honey.

You could save a few lives during severe weather, and put a couple hundred-thousand at risk for being unable to afford electricity anymore.

Answer 3

Or we could live in underground cities. No need to care about the weather

Answer 4

Are u going to pay for it??? to put them under ground is very expensive and they get flooded often.