Electricity North West is ramping up its preparations ahead of strong winds which look set to hit the region this evening.
Already, the power network operator has hundreds of engineers on standby to repair any damage quickly and safely, with extra call agents on hand to provide help and support to customers.
Met Office forecasters named Storm Isha on Friday and wind speeds are expected to top 70mph from 6pm until the early hours of the morning.
Ahead of the high winds, Electricity North West wants to warn its customers that conditions at times may be unsafe for lines teams to climb and in some instances, power may well be off overnight and into Monday until conditions ease.
Steph Trubshaw, Electricity North West’s customer director, said: “We’re constantly monitoring the weather and several forecasts are showing wind speeds of 70mph across the region for a prolonged period of time.
“Given the predicted forecasts, we’re anticipating the conditions will make it unsafe for teams to climb meaning restorations for some customers will be delayed.
“Where we can, we will restore properties remotely utilising the technology we have on our network but for faults that need a permanent repair, power may be off overnight and into Monday if conditions are too dangerous.
“Should that be the case, we’ll ensure regular updates are provided to those customers that are impacted and from tomorrow morning, we’ll have hundreds of staff responding to ensure supplies are restored.”
Electricity North West invests millions each year cutting back trees from power lines but strong winds can still cause damage and blow other debris into the network which can cause power cuts.
Teams will constantly be reviewing the weather and if conditions are safe, teams will work into the night carrying out repairs, should properties be affected.
The company also offers extra support to customers who may find power cuts more difficult through its Extra Care Register. For more information and to register yourself or a friend or family member for free, go to www.enwl.co.uk/extracare.
You can prepare ahead of possible power cuts by charging phones and laptops, getting blankets and torches ready and speaking with neighbours or family members so you know what to do. For more tips and for live power cut information go to www.enwl.co.uk/powercuts.
“The safety of the public and our own teams is our number one priority," added Steph.
"As always, if people see any damaged equipment, then stay well clear as it could still be live. Call us on 105 and we will send engineers to make it safe. If there is a life-threatening situation call 999.
“For power cut updates, check our website and social media channels, or call us for free on 105 so we can help provide updates and support."
You can follow updates and contact Electricity North West on X and Facebook, or you can call for free on 105 from any phone.
