Keep Clear of Downed Power Lines

8 January 2013

Keep Clear of Downed Power Lines

MEDIA RELEASE

Powerco is warning people to stay away from any power lines brought down by strong winds this morning in the Manawatu region.

The severe wind gusts resulted in power cuts for approximately 1400 customers in the Fielding and Sanson areas, with the supply restored to the majority before 1pm. In the Sanson area, due to the extent of damage caused by fallen trees, the power to the remaining 100 or so customers is expected to be restored by approximately 8pm this evening

The MetService has also issued a severe weather warning for the Wairarapa, Manawatu and Taranaki regions from Wednesday evening through to Thursday morning. Gusts of wind of between 120 km/hr to 140km/hr are expected.

Powerco Network Operations Manager Phil Marsh said winds of this strength could damage trees and power lines.

“Power lines that have fallen to the ground may look safe but they’re very often still live. Live lines can kill. Stay at least 4 metres away from any downed power lines. Call Powerco’s emergency number 0800 272727 or call 111. We’ll get a professional out there so everyone stays safe.”

Mr Marsh said the forecast winds were also likely to cause power cuts across the network. Powerco’s focus would be to safely restore supply to customers as soon as possible.

He said people should make sure trampolines were securely fixed to the ground or they could blow on to lines causing multiple power cuts.

People with mobile phones with a web browser should save Powerco’s outage and faults page, www.powerco.co.nz/Outages-and-Faults/ to their favourites - this site has the latest information about power cuts and expected restoration times.

Mr Marsh said people wanting further information about power cuts should call their electricity retailer.

Ends

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