Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK's energy network operators, is urging customers to stay clear of any fallen power lines and report it immediately.
Storm Arwen is causing disruption across the country and has caused damage to parts of the electricity infrastructure. Engineers have been responding to power cuts throughout the night and this morning, with many more teams on standby as Storm Arwen sweeps across the country.
Highs winds have caused damage to the overhead electricity network, as well as falling trees blocking roads causing delays to engineers reaching equipment to make repairs. Some parts of the country have experienced winds reaching 98mph. Teams of engineers across the country are responding.
In some areas power lines have been brought down or damaged by flying debris, prompting the energy networks to issue the following advice:
Found a damaged power line or infrastructure?
- Keep as far away from the hazard as possible.
- Keep other people as far away from the hazard as possible, but don't put yourself in danger.
- Contact your network operator immediately. In Great Britain, call 105. In Northern Ireland, call 03457 643643.
If there is an immediate risk to life or someone is in danger, call 999.
What should I do during a power cut?
- Switch off. Switch off all electrical appliances that shouldn’t be left unattended, ready for when the power comes back on.
- Leave on. Leave a light on so you know when the power cut has been fixed.
- Check. Check to see if your neighbours are safe and if they have a power cut too. If they have power, your trip switch may have activated.
- Wrap up. Wrap up warm and close internal doors to keep the heat in.
- Contact. Contact your network operator to report the power cut or check their Twitter feed to see what's happening. Your network operator is different from your energy supplier. Find out who your local network operator is using our who's my network operator? tool.
Ross Easton, Director at Energy Networks Association, said:
"If you come across fallen power lines or damage to the electricity network, stay well clear and call 105 for free to report it. If there is an immediate risk to life or someone is in danger, call 999."
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.