Storm Austen: advice from National Grid Electricity Distribution

Hatton Parish Council has received advice from National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) encouraging residents to prepare for possible power cuts during severe weather.

Storm Austen is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the UK overnight on Thursday 22 October and into Friday 23 October. The strongest winds are forecast further south and west, but the preparation advice below is useful for Hatton residents throughout the storm season.

Extreme weather can damage overhead power lines, particularly when trees and debris fall onto the electricity network. NGED has engineers ready to respond to disruption and restore supplies as quickly and safely as possible.

Preparing for a power cut

National Grid recommends taking a few simple steps:

1. Keep contact details handy. Call 105 free, 24 hours a day, to report a power cut, or visit the National Grid power cuts website.

2. Prepare your home. Keep a torch available, charge your mobile phone and have a charged battery pack ready if possible. A battery-powered or solar-powered radio can help you stay informed. Keep some non-perishable food available and consider surge protection for sensitive equipment.

3. Check on others. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and check whether neighbours, relatives or friends need help preparing.

4. Register for extra support. If you or someone in your household may need additional help during a power cut, consider joining the free Priority Services Register.

5. Stay informed. Sign up for National Grid storm updates and check the power cut map for information about local outages.

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Extra support during power cuts

National Grid’s Priority Services Register provides additional help for people who may need support during a power cut. This includes older people, people who are disabled or seriously ill, and those who rely on electricity for medical equipment.

You can find out more and register on the Priority Services Register website.

Reporting a power cut or a network hazard

If you experience a power cut or spot a danger affecting the electricity network, contact National Grid:

• Telephone: 105 or 0800 6783 105

• Online: Report a power cut or check local outages

• X: @gridcustomersuk

• Webchat: Available through the National Grid website

  
  

National Grid’s control room and customer contact centre operate around the clock, although phone lines may be busier during severe weather.

Residents can also check the latest Met Office weather warnings as forecasts develop.