Engineers from Electricity North West have restored power to more than 6,700 properties as Storm Pia has hit the region.
Tree branches and debris have caused widespread damage bringing down overhead power lines as winds have hit already 55mph with peak gusts expected until 5pm.
Engineers are working to restore power to the remaining 2,800 properties with already more than 20 individual damages to the network reported, however, in some areas, the high winds have caused issues for teams on site, making it unsafe for lines teams to climb and make repairs.
Impact has been across Lancashire and Cumbria with damage also reported in the Peak District.
A yellow Met Office weather warning remains in place until midnight after Danish forecasters yesterday named the storm which is impacting the majority of the United Kingdom.
Samantha Loukes, Electricity North West’s incident manager, said: “Fresh off two major weather incidents already this month, our teams are again responding and battling the elements brought by Storm Pia.
“We are well prepared and having already made substantial progress this morning, teams remain on site carrying out repairs where trees and branches have damaged overhead lines.
“For the North West, we’re expecting the worst of the winds to hit the region from 10am until 2pm but our forecast along with the Met Office warning remains in place until midnight.
“As always, if you see lines down or damage to any of our equipment, stay well clear and call us on 105 so we can make the area safe.”
When conditions allow, Electricity North West will use drones in affected areas to help assess damage and prioritise repairs.
Electricity North West’s contact centre has already handled more than 700 calls and will continue to proactively contact customers on its Extra Care register.
Those who need extra support during a power cut can join Electricity North West’s free Extra Care register by calling 105 or going to www.enwl.co.uk/extracare.
“It can be incredibly difficult to be without power, especially if you rely on it for medical equipment or have other needs, so if you need any additional support, please contact us and let us know,” added Samantha.
“Our teams will be working around the clock to restore power as quickly and as safely as possible and we will continue to provide updates via our website and social media whilst our contact centre will also be making proactive calls to customers on our Extra Care register.”
