Caught on camera: Sisters homeowner watches as tall pine tree falls, tears out sparking power lines

(Update: Adding video, interview with Allely)

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Steve Allely was taking a video of the windy snowstorm outside his Sisters home Thursday evening when he heard a huge crack, turned and caught a towering Ponderosa pine smashing to the ground and through a power line, with a bang and big shower of sparks.

It was one of many trees toppled around the region and state as a powerful new storm blew in, knocking out power to thousands and closing major highways Thursday night.

A Central Electric Cooperative repair crew had power back on for more than 230 members by early Friday morning.

Allely says he is thankful the damage was limited to his car and woodshed, and for the quick work by CEC in dangerous conditions.

 "I was just amazed at the power company, how fast they got that pole replaced,” Allely told us Friday. “They were working in very high winds and a lot of snow - like out in a blizzard. I couldn't believe it. Those guys really deserve a big hand for the way they handled that. It wasn't safe either. It’s sobering. It makes you think -- you know, we need to be ready to help our fellow man, through whatever." 

He's also appreciative of the huge outpouring of support for him and his wife from neighbors and friends.

Although it was scary, they've called Central Oregon home for 30 years, and he says they're not going anywhere.