Vector Ready to Respond to Stormy Weather in Auckland

MONDAY 13 AUGUST: Auckland energy distributor Vector has outage response crews ready to respond to any damage to the electricity network caused by stormy weather over the next few days.

Metservice is forecasting possible heavy rain overnight Monday and severe northwesterly gales on Tuesday, with gusts predicted of up 100km/h.

A combination of sodden ground and strong winds could cause weakened trees to fall on and damage electricity infrastructure throughout the region, which could result in power outages.

Vector’s Chief Network Officer, Andre Botha, says the public should be aware of the potential hazards strong winds and heavy rains can create throughout the region.

“Trees coming into contact with lines and cars colliding with power poles in the wet, are both possibilities when the worst of the weather reaches Auckland.

“During a power outage, please remember that the safety of the public and Vector’s contracting field staff is of primary importance at all times. Keep an eye on seemingly-weakened trees that could endanger the public or threaten to collapse on electricity infrastructure, and alert the relevant authorities.

"And most importantly, please, always treat downed lines as live and stay well clear."

People using medical equipment that relies on electricity should ensure they are prepared for power disruptions and if there is an immediate health threat, contact their health provider or call 111.

To report, or find out more about, a power outage – call 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867)

During the storm, Vector is advising people to:
• stay well clear of fallen power lines or damaged electrical equipment and treat them as live at all times
• watch out for falling tree branches as these can cause damage to power lines
• avoid possible damage to electrical appliances (in the unlikely event there is a power surge when the power is restored) by switching off appliances at the wall
• keep a torch and spare batteries handy and ensure that you have at least one telephone that does not rely on electricity for operation
• Ensure that an alternate fuel is always available for cooking (e.g. gas for BBQ)

ENDS

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