The power failure occurred at about 2 a.m. when the snake touched a component that caused a switch to trip, Oklahoma Gas and Electric spokeswoman Karen Kurtz said, adding that the snake was evidently seeking shelter after heavy rains. At the scene of the crime, no one could determine exactly what kind of serpent caused all the trouble.

"Usually in those situations there's not a lot left," Kurtz explained. Of the snake, that is. The electrical substation is purring along fine now.