Electricity distributor Powercor is urging Victorians to plan ahead for Wednesday’s forecast severe winds, with a strong cold front pushing across the state.
Wind gusts of more than 120km/h are forecast for some regions, including the South-West, the Otway Ranges, Geelong and into the Surf Coast and outer suburbs of Melbourne, with strong winds predicted for most of the state.
The Bureau of Meteorology has extended a severe weather warning for damaging winds for all regions.
Powercor’s Head of Network Control and Operations Peter Galey said extra field crews, controllers, dispatchers and contact centre specialists were being mobilised in preparation for tomorrow’s weather.
“Extreme winds like these are rare, but when they hit, they dramatically increase the risk of trees, branches or debris damaging our network and causing localised outages,” Mr Galey said.
“We’re closely monitoring weather conditions and will be ready to respond if power does go out.
“Victorians can act too by preparing for power outages as part of their emergency plan.”
Mr Galey encouraged people to take steps now to be ready for Wednesday’s forecasted weather.
“Know what you would do if the power does go out – charge your phones, laptops and other devices, know how to open your garage door manually, and know where to turn for information,” he said.
“Make sure you are ready to enact your backup plan if you rely on life support equipment or need electrical items to care for others and have water available if your supply relies on power.”
With the south-west region expected to experience damaging winds again, a generator is being deployed to the region in case major powerlines located in the Otways Ranges are impacted.
Mr Galey reminded people that severe winds can bring down powerlines.
“Beware of fallen powerlines and always assume they are live,” he said.
“If you do find a fallen line, stay at least 10 metres away from them and contact us immediately on 13 24 12.”
Customers are encouraged to sign up for outage alerts.
“Our networks are designed to cope with strong winds, but extreme conditions like those forecast increase the risk of power outages so preparation is essential,” Mr Galey said.
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