A significant power outage in Perth began on Sunday due to rain and humid weather, affecting about 40,000 homes and businesses. Western Power issued an update saying about 70 pole fires had been reported, which caused unplanned power outages. Perth frequently experiences heavy storms, lightning strikes, and other extreme weather events. These weather events can demolish power lines and affect electrical systems. The power outage has also resulted in certain places losing traffic signals and experiencing blackouts, resulting in safety concerns. 

Western Power Perth

Western Power, a business operated by the Western Australian state government, manages an electrical network linking 2.3 million people to traditional and renewable energy. On Sunday, it reported a power outage in Perth that impacted Padbury, Kingsley, Craigie, Tapping, Malaga, Balga, Hamersley, Greenwood, and others. According to the spokesman, effort is being made to reduce the danger of pole top fires across the network, but climate change implications on weather patterns are “proving troublesome”.

Western Power – Update on Outage

Western Power inspects and maintains its electricity infrastructure regularly to prevent pole-top fires. However, unexpected events and typical wear and tear may still cause issues. A spokesman from Western Power provided an update on the power outage. 

• We are working quickly and carefully to ensure safety in over 80 risks around the state.
• Given the high and low-voltage cables linked, each pole shift can take 4 to 8 hours or longer. Some customers may be without power until late in the day.
• The number of homes without electricity has dropped, but no specific time for restoration has been provided.
• Crews are targeting critical infrastructure in areas with hospitals and emergency services.
• Western Power communicates with its clientele by connecting directly with locals via SMS. 

It is strengthening its network service activities, which include its 860,000 poles, by introducing comprehensive preventative methods such as live line high-pressure cleaning, silicon utilisation, insulator replacements, and tree and vegetation control around power lines. Despite the problems posed by climate change’s influence on weather patterns, Western Power intends to minimise pole-top fire hazards while increasing resilience.

Outrage in Perth is disrupting electricity, water, phone, internet, petrol stations, and retail outlets, with power outages expected to last several days. The Western Power has taken steps to safeguard the safety of the residents in the impacted region. 

Safety Guidelines to Follow

Western Power in Perth provides safety instructions to protect people’s well-being during power outages. This advice aims to reduce accidents and guarantee public safety during continuing power outages.

• Residents should follow the appropriate channels for up-to-date information on restoration work and projected timelines.
• Fallen power wires should be considered active and dangerous, kept at a safe distance of at least 10 meters (33 feet), and notified to emergency services.
• Generators should be installed outside in well-ventilated regions to reduce carbon monoxide emissions.
• To keep food fresh, hold the refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
• During an outage, avoid using open flames to ignite anything.
• Intersections with non-functioning traffic signals should be viewed as stop signs, and drivers should proceed with care.
• When employing medical equipment, backup power sources should be accessible.

Power is expected to be restored to certain areas by 5 p.m. However, Mr Christmas, Western Power Spokesperson, warns the blackout may only be addressed entirely tomorrow. Crews are working hard to repair the significant damage to the network and restore power to most consumers over the next several days. Residents should be patient and observe safety recommendations until the power is restored. Western Power is working hard to resolve the outage and reduce interruptions.

Team Colitco