Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has today issued a weather warning in preparation for a period of unsettled weather which could impact its electricity network in central southern England this week.
SSEN's current weather model shows a period of strong winds building from around 10am this morning (Thursday 20 May) with wind gusts reaching up to 50mph throughout the course of the day before easing in the evening.
On Friday, south-westerly winds are forecast across SSEN's network area from the early hours of the morning, with gusts reaching up to 60mph along coastal regions and in to parts of West Sussex,and 50mph inland. Wind speeds are expected to peak between midday and 4pm before gradually easing into the evening, with winds lingering in the south east until 9pm.
In preparation, SSEN has enacted its well-established resilience plans, increasing its standby resources in anticipation of potential damage to its network. SSEN would like to reassure its customers that while you may see increased activity from its teams in your local areas over the next few days, engineers will be working in accordance with Government coronavirus guidance, adhering to strict social distancing measures to ensure the safety of the local community as they work.
SSEN is urging people to not approach any damage to its equipment and instead, to report it by calling 105 or via its Power Track App and engineers will investigate as soon as possible.
Customers are also being encouraged to be prepared for the possibility of disruption to supplies by:
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Saving the emergency power cut number '105' to your phone to report any loss of supply or damage to the electricity network
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Downloading SSEN's Power Track app to give you details of power cuts and restoration times. You can also report power cuts and network damage through the Power Track app
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Going to SSEN's website where there is a wealth of advice and information on how to deal with a power cut, or to chat live to one of SSEN's advisors via its Webchat service
SSEN's Priority Services Register (PSR) provides extra help and support during a power cut. SSEN has extended the PSR eligibility criteria to those who are categorised at 'high risk' and 'extremely high risk' of severe illness from coronavirus, so they are now eligible to sign up for additional support through the free, tailored service.
Customers are also eligible for SSEN's free priority services if they:
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Are deaf or hard of hearing
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Have a disability
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Live with children under five
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Are blind or partially sighted
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Have a chronic illness
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Use medical equipment/aids reliant on electricity
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Are over 60
To find out more about the PSR, click here or call 0800 294 3259.