What is known but being ignored is when the main transformers at power stations are fried there are no ready replacements. There's only one facility that builds them in North America and that's in Canada.
Transformers of that size are built only when ordered. They are not stockpiled. Figure at least a year to build one. Now figure how long it will take to build possibly hundreds. Parts of this country will be without power for much longer than a few months.
The transformers are normally moved by rail due to the size. The schnabel cars that are used for transport are few and far between.
Add that fuel for transport, especially the large quantities needed for railroad use, is going to limited at best.
It adds up to a death knell for much of our society.
The photo below shows a schnabel car with a transformer. 
