Northern Powergrid has issued advice on what to do if there are power cuts due to strong winds in the North East.
A yellow weather alert has been sent out by the Met Office, warning people to expect severe gales across the region. Wind speeds are expected to increase on Thursday evening and peak on Friday.
The Met Office warning runs from 6am to 6pm on Friday, February 17, with some parts of the North East set to experience winds of 50mph to 60mph, but gusts of 70mph are possible in "more exposed trans-Pennine routes".
Read More: North East braced for Storm Otto as Met Office issues warning of up to 75mph winds
Northern Powergrid says it is "ready to mobilise colleagues and support as this situation develops". It adds: "This weather front does have the potential to have an impact and cause damage to our network, so there is a possibility that there could be disruption to power supplies in at least some parts of the region.
"The relevant teams are on standby and ready to be diverted onto the storm response should this materialise. We also have a fleet of generators ready to be deployed where they are the most effective way of restoring supplies."
In a message to customers, the team adds: "Our electricity network is operating as normal, however, we wanted to reassure you that we are closely monitoring the weather across our operating areas, and our teams are ready and prepared to respond if this weather has any impact on our network."
What to do if there is a power cut
If you have a power cut, the easiest way to report and access the latest information is via Northern Powergrid's website www.northernpowergrid.com/power-cuts Alternatively their teams are available 24/7 by calling 105.
Checklist of things to do or be aware of
- Have a battery-powered or wind-up radio tuned into a local radio station
- Keep a torch handy - much safer than candles
- Make sure you have a charged mobile to hand with all important numbers stored
- If you have a stair lift, avoid using it up to 30 minutes prior to a planned power cut
- Only use alternative forms of heat or lighting if they're safe
- Regularly back-up work and important files on your computer before a power cut
- Make a hot water bottle and fill a vacuum flask with something warm
- Make sure you wrap up warm with extra clothes and/or blankets
- Ensure cupboards are stocked with food and drink
- Kitchen appliances will be ok during a power cut
- Home and fire alarms may be affected during a power cut
- Fish and livestock may be vulnerable during a power cut
What is Priority Services Membership
Customers with a disability, medical condition or very young families, who may need greater assistance during a power cut, and have signed up to the Priority Services Membership, will be kept updated as a priority. For any customers on Priority Services Membership who may require further support, you can contact the dedicated priority service line 0800 169 2996.
If you have additional needs due to your medical or personal circumstances, and are not part of Priority Services Membership, you should consider joining for free by visiting Priority Services Membership.
It will help the team to support you during a power cut including regular updates on the situation and considering alternative needs such as food and accommodation. Those who can join include customers:
- Of pensionable age
- Disabled, chronically sick, or have a long-term medical condition
- Hearing or visually impaired
- Have additional communication needs
- In a vulnerable situation
- Have young children at home
Please remember to check on neighbours, friends and family members who may need additional support.
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