Electricity network operator preparing for Storm Erik

As the Storm Erik ‘weather bomb’ moves closer to home, the region’s electricity network is making preparations to respond quickly to any interruptions to electricity supplies the high winds might bring over the next 48 hours.     

With Erik set to arrive in the region in the early hours of Friday morning, UK Power Networks is monitoring the weather closely and is in regular contact with the Met Office.

Head of customer service Sam Fuller said: “High winds and rain from the west are forecast across the country for tomorrow, and could affect our area.The electricity network is built to be resilient but extreme weather can affect overhead power lines when tree branches and other debris damage them. 

“We have robust plans in place to cope with severe weather and have brought in additional staff covering engineer, technical and call centre roles. Most of our planned maintenance work has been cancelled to free the engineers up for potential repairs.”

The company is a 24-hour business and staff work shifts 365 days a year providing round the clock help to the 8.3 million homes and businesses it serves across the South East, East of England and London.  

People are urged to report any power cuts or damaged power lines by ringing 105, and members of the public should stay well clear of damaged cables.Customers can find up-to-date information on the company’s website or by following @ukpowernetworks on twitter. 

UK Power Networks provides extra help to vulnerable customers on its Priority Services Register, and details on eligibility and how to register can be found at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk

UK Power Networks have ten power cuts tips for customers :

• Keep our numbers handy, ring 105 or 0800 3163 105 in a power cut
• Check the live power cut map on our website for updates in your area
• Locate a torch, check it’s working and make sure you have spare batteries. Take care if using candles.
• Charge up your mobile phone, and a rechargeable mobile ‘powerbank’ if you have one
• Use a phone with a cord if you have one, cordless phones don’t work in a power cut
• Freezers remain cold for several hours without power, keep the door closed
• Dress in warm clothes
• Look out for vulnerable neighbours
• See our website for useful videos giving advice during a power cut www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercuts 
• We urge vulnerable customers to register for our Priority Services Registerwww.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priorityemail: [email protected]

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