Power restored to tens of thousands of properties as Storm Eowyn batters Lancashire

Electricity North West have been working hard to restore electricity across Lancashire
-Credit:Electricity North West


Power has been restored to 25,600 amid strong winds in Lancashire.

Electricity North West engineers have been working hard during the adverse weather conditions to restore power to tens of thousands of properties. Tree branches and debris have been causing damage, causing overhead power lines to come down.

In Lancashire, wind speeds have already been recorded at highs of 80mph, with speeds of 85mph expected to be recorded this afternoon (Friday, January 24). Electricity North West have invested in new technology which crucially enables them to restore power where possible.

READ MORE: Live updates as Storm Eowyn batters Lancashire with 80mph winds

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Engineers are currently carrying out repairs on site and are working to restore power to 6,000 properties. Unfortunately, it may not be safe for workers to complete work in some areas, as they will need to climb poles and repair damage, so this will be done when wind speeds decrease.

Electricity North West has already made the decision to set restoration times on some power cuts at 6pm tomorrow. This is following feedback from customers who want to know the ‘worst case scenario.’ “The weather conditions that are forecast are on a par with Storm Arwen,” said Stephanie Trubshaw, Electricity North West’s incident manager.

“Already, we’re seeing disruption on the network, this has varied from trees hitting overhead lines and debris such as plastic sheets colliding with wood lines and poles. Conditions certainly won’t be easy and if we can’t restore people remotely utilising technology, teams will carry out repairs when it is safe to do so.

“We’ve also made the early decision to set restoration times at 6pm tomorrow, Saturday, this is following extensive feedback from customers. They’ve requested the worst-case scenario at present so plans can be made in advance.

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“However, I want to stress if power can be restored earlier, we’ll do exactly that and we’ll keep customers regularly updated.”

Ahead of Storm Éowyn, Electricity North West’s customer team proactively contacted more than 70,000 people on its Extra Care Register to raise awareness and help people prepare. Since midnight, its contact centre has already handled more than 1,200 calls from customers.

“Our teams will work around the clock to restore power to our customers,” added Steph. “We know 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.”

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