‘We’re prepared and ready to support you’ message as Storm Éowyn forecast to bring strong winds to the region
The Met Office has issued a weather warning for Storm Éowyn, which is forecast to bring strong winds across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire on Friday.
The forecast conditions have the potential to impact the electricity network, so there is a possibility of disruption to power supplies. Northern Powergrid has sought to reassure customers, saying: “Our teams are ready to respond as quickly as possible to keep the power on.
“We will keep customers updated via our website, social media channels and text messages. For Priority Services customers, we will ensure those affected receive the extra help they need and peace of mind if there is a power cut.
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“Our customer support vehicles and welfare partners are also prepped and ready to go out into local communities, where possible, to offer help on the ground to those who need it most.”
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Power cut advice and tips include:
Save Northern Powergrid’s online power cut map and reporting service on your mobile devices – www.northernpowergrid.com/power-cuts
Have a charged mobile phone with important numbers, including 105, the free national power cut phone line, easily accessible
Turn off electrical appliances at the socket (this is particularly important for heating or cooking appliances as your power could be restored at any time and potentially cause a safety hazard)
Keep one light switched on so you know when power is restored
Keep a battery or wind-up torch handy – much safer than candles
Check on your elderly or sick neighbours and relatives
Ensure you have warm clothing and blankets handy and some food and drink in your home that does not require electricity to heat or prepare it
Only call 999 in the event of an emergency
If you spot any fallen trees on power lines/poles or damaged cables due to Storm Éowyn, stay well clear and call 105 immediately. If you have been impacted by a power cut and have online access, report your power cut online and stay online to get updates at www.northernpowergrid.com/power-cuts
If you don’t have online access, please call Northern Powergrid on 105. Customers can also report a power cut via WhatsApp on 0191 687 22 54 - available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
To find out more about Northern Powergrid’s free Priority Services Membership and how to join visit northernpowergrid.com/care, email priorityservices@northernpowergrid.com or call 0800 169 2996.
As Storm Éowyn approaches, bringing very strong winds and possible widespread disruption, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued it own safety guidelines to help the public. Adrian Simpson, head of policy at RoSPA, said: “We urge everyone to take these precautions seriously to ensure their safety during Storm Éowyn.”
On the road
Avoid travel: If possible, avoid traveling during the storm. High winds can make driving hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles
Drive cautiously: If travel is unavoidable, reduce your speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be alert for debris on the road
Check routes: Stay updated on road conditions and closures by checking local traffic reports and weather updates
At home
Secure loose items: Ensure that outdoor furniture, bins, and other loose items are secured or brought indoors to prevent them from being blown away
Stay indoors: Remain indoors as much as possible. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent wind damage
Emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit
Near coastal areas
Avoid coastal paths: Stay away from coastal paths, promenades, and piers. High waves and strong winds can create dangerous conditions
Monitor alerts: Pay attention to local weather alerts and follow the advice of authorities regarding evacuations or safety measures
General advice
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings from reliable sources
Help vulnerable neighbours: Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours to ensure they are safe and have everything they need
Emergency contacts: Have a list of emergency contact numbers readily available, including local authorities and utility companies
The Humber Bridge Board has posted about the possible need to fully close the bridge if this becomes necessary during the stormy weather. It said on X: “We are working closely with our Weather Forecast Service to monitor the situation and will take the appropriate action as necessary, including speed restrictions and closing the bridge to pedestrians, cyclists, high-sided and wind vulnerable vehicles.
“There is a risk that we may need to temporarily close the bridge to all vehicles and pedestrians for a short period, if the current forecast changes. If this is necessary, we will work with our stakeholders to do this safely and efficiently and provide as much notice as possible.
“If you are planning on crossing the bridge over the course of Friday please check the latest traffic and travel info on our website http://humberbridge.co.uk and be prepared to add extra time to your journey. We know that delays on the bridge can be frustrating, but we ask that you remember our colleagues are here to help so please treat them with respect.”