A thunderstorm that swept through Grenfell on Tuesday dropped just 7mm of rain in the 24 hour period finishing 9am on Wednesday morning.
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The storm left tree and some farm damage in its wake and caused disruption to energy supply in some areas.
In the event of severe thunderstorm activity such as that which has swept across northern NSW in recent weeks, Essential Energy works closely with local emergency services to keep communities safe and restore power.
Regional Manager Northern, Mark Summers, said when storms, lightning, heavy rain and wind gusts damage Essential Energy’s network and disrupt power supplies, crews are ready to respond.
“Despite our comprehensive maintenance program, our vast network can be at the mercy of the weather during the traditional storm season from October to April,” Mark said.
“Essential Energy monitors the network continuously and has crews ready to be dispatched in the event of an unplanned power outage.
“While our crews are ready to respond 24/7, we’re asking our customers to also be prepared for storms, stay safe and be patient while we work to restore power after these severe weather events.”
Essential Energy reminds people to report fallen powerlines or damaged infrastructure and keep at least eight metres away.
“Always treat powerlines as live and remember that anything in contact with them, such as cars, trees or fences, can conduct electricity and pose a danger,” Mark said.
“Be aware that fallen powerlines may not always be visible in paddocks or rugged countryside, or could be hidden by storm debris.”
If you notice fallen trees, deceased animals, smoke, fire, or scorched areas around electrical equipment, call Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80
In an emergency, Essential Energy crews will isolate fault areas and clear fallen vegetation from powerlines to make communities safe and, where possible, back-feed power from other areas.
Major powerlines are re-energised first to restore electricity to the majority of customers.
Once this is completed, field crews target individual faults and customers’ problems, such as broken house service lines.
Residents are warned to be prepared with storms common throughout January and February.
