The article discusses the modeling of power lines based on PMU data to assess the state of overhead lines. Current approaches to solving the problem are analyzed. The advantages and disadvantages of these approaches are presented. It has been established that when modeling power lines are traditionally represented in the form of a - circuits scheme, which leads to methodological modeling errors. To reduce the methodological error of modeling, overhead lines (OHLs) can be presented in the form of equations with distributed parameters, which allows for maximum accuracy. However, distributed line equations contain hyperbolic functions and reduce performance in real-time simulations. Based on this, it is noted that the selection of an adequate mathematical model of overhead lines with the appropriate accuracy of synchronized vector measurements in real time when assessing the state of power lines is an important stage of modeling. The article discusses overhead line models using equations with distributed parameters, a -circuits, an equivalent - circuits and chain -circuits depending on the number of links. The results of calculating the mode based on the modeling accuracy using the example of a 500 kV overhead line are presented, as well as the results of comparing various equivalent circuits. It is shown that when modeling overhead line modes based on the results of PMU measurements, representing power lines as chain circuits with links 50 km or less in length is appropriate, since it makes it possible to obtain a model accuracy that is adequate to the PMU measurements. Methodological errors in modeling ultra-high voltage transmission lines using the equations of long lines have been studied. The obtained results can be used for monitoring, analysis and operational management of the electric power system