Engineers gear up for Storm Eunice

The new storm follows hot on the heels of Storm Dudley yesterday and overnight. Winds of up to 80mph are predicted in coastal areas of the East and South East of England, which could cause power cuts when trees, branches and other debris are blown onto overhead power lines. 

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 damage sites. 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. 

Head of customer services and innovation Ian Cameron, said: “This storm comes hot on the heels of Storm Dudley where we managed to get power supplies restored the same night. Based on the forecasts we anticipate that Eunice has the potential to cause significant damage to electricity networks so we are ready with extra resources on duty. Our message to people is to please be prepared at home, in case your power goes off.

“We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity especially during cold weather, and will be working to restore supplies as quickly as is safely possible. If you see any damaged power lines our advice is to stay away, keep everyone clear and call us on 105.”

UK Power Networks provides free extra help to people living in vulnerable circumstances, who are on its Priority Services Register so residents are urged to sign up if they are eligible. 
Teams will be working to keep customers updated, and are 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 here.

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 
• Register free for the Priority Services Register or email: psr@ukpowernetworks.co.uk
• If you see a damaged power line keep everyone clear and call 105

 

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