UK Power Networks is gearing up to respond to any power cuts caused by two storms heading to the UK this week.
The country is preparing for winds up to 90mph from Storm Eunice on Friday, after Storm Dudley tonight. Two storms in quick succession could increase the chances of trees and branches damaging overhead power lines. Electricity networks are built to be resilient and UK Power Networks invests £19 million in tree cutting every year, but extreme weather can damage overhead lines so extra engineers, damage assessment teams, and call centre staff are ready to respond around the clock.
Thanks to investment in remote control technology, engineers will be able to fix some power cuts quickly without visiting the scenes of the damage. Then teams will be able to climb poles to repair overhead power lines as soon as the winds subside to a safe level. There will be more than 100 engineering teams on duty from tonight.
Head of customer services and innovation Ian Cameron, said: “We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity especially during cold weather, and will be working to restore supplies quickly if there are power cuts. Keeping people safe and fixing power cuts is our priority, so if you see any damaged power lines our advice is to stay away, keep everyone clear and call us on 105.”
He added: “We are urging people to make sure they are prepared at home too. For example you could charge your mobile phone and other devices before the weather hits. We provide free extra help to people living in vulnerable circumstances, who are on our Priority Services Register so please sign up if you are eligible for future help.”
UK Power Networks will be working to keep customers updated, and is also in contact with local resilience partners to help preparations.
Find the latest information on the company’s website or by following @ukpowernetworks on Twitter. See how power is restored at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDTZK9mJE3U
Advice for a power cut:
- Keep this number handy, ring freephone 105 to reach us in a power cut
- Charge up your mobile phone before the weather hits, and a rechargeable mobile ‘powerbank’ if you have one
- Use a phone with a cord if you have one, cordless landlines don’t work in a power cut
- Check your torch is working and has spare batteries. Take care if using candles
- Freezers remain cold for several hours without power, keep the door closed
- Keep warm by dressing in warm clothes
- Look out for vulnerable neighbours and call 105 if they need assistance
- Check our live power cut map on our website for updates in your area
- Also see our website for advice during a power cut www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/power-cut/help-and-advice
- Register free for the Priority Services Register at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priority email: psr@ukpowernetworks.co.uk
- If you see a damaged power line keep everyone clear and call 105
