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Preparing for Storm Bella

24 December 2020

Storm Bella has officially been named by the Met Office as strong winds and heavy rain are forecast from 26 December.

 

There is currently no weather-related disruption to the energy networks, but network operators are preparing. 

You can take some simple steps to prepare for bad weather too:

  • Keep a mobile phone fully charged
  • If you experience a power cut, call 105 for free
  • Keep a torch handy in case you are without power during the night
  • Have warm clothes and blankets accessible
  • Check on vulnerable neighbours

You can follow the latest updates from the UK energy network companies on Twitter.

If you need extra help…

Network operators work with suppliers to maintain a free Priority Services Register to help identify vulnerable customers who may need additional support during a power cut.

If you see a dangerous situation…

It is very important that if you see a fallen power line you keep everyone well away from it and call the emergency number to report it. Calling the emergency number will connect you to your local network operator. This is also who you should call if you have a power cut.

How are the energy networks preparing?

The energy networks are very resilient and built to withstand severe weather and energy network operators are prepared in case the weather interrupts your electricity supply.

However, during a storm, objects like trees, branches and other debris can be blown around by the wind and cause damage. For example, if this debris lands on power lines or other infrastructure it can cause damage and result in power cuts.

Network operators are monitoring Storm Bella closely and are prepared. While they can’t predict the precise location or severity of any weather damage, network operators are taking steps like arranging for extra staff to be available and moving vehicles and equipment to strategic locations.

The companies which operate our country’s energy networks invest millions of pounds every year to keep your energy flowing while sustaining the challenges faced by increased demand and adverse weather.

About us

Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the energy networks. Our members include every major electricity network operator in the UK. The electricity networks are at the heart of the energy transition. They directly employ more than 26,000 people in the UK, including 1,500 apprentices. They are spending and investing £33bn in our electricity grids over the coming years, to ensure safe, reliable and secure energy supplies for the millions of homes and businesses reliant on power every day.

Press contacts

You can contact ENA's press office by emailing press@energynetworks.org. For urgent or out-of-hours enquiries from journalists, please call 0204 599 7691.