Northern Powergrid to restore power by this evening, but warn Storm Barra could hamper efforts

  • Tracey McManus from Ulgham, in Northumberland was without power for 11 days. She couldn't leave her home and animals unattended and the prospect of a joyful Christmas seemed bleak.

Northern Powergrid continue their efforts to restore power to the last 500 homes in the North East affected by Storm Arwen.

However, they've warned Storm Barra could hamper work - they've assured they are tracking the weather closely, and that teams are ready should the storm affect its network.

The forecast includes drifting snow in the Pennine regions of Northumberland, County Durham and Yorkshire and gusty winds across the whole of the North East and Yorkshire.

Credit: Northern Powergrid

The network operator has a fleet of 4x4 and, other specialist access equipment which it will use should windborne debris, trees and other vegetation damage its overhead power lines and the weather makes travel and site access difficult. 

The company’s website is providing updates and has teams available 24/7 by calling 105.

Power cut tips and advice include:

  • Bookmarking Northern Powergrid's online power cut map and reporting service on their mobile devices

  • Having a charged mobile phone with important numbers, including 105, easily accessible

  • Turning off electrical appliances at the socket (this is particularly important for heating or cooking appliances as your power could be restored at any time and potentially cause a safety hazard)

  • Keeping one light switched on so you know when power is restored

  • Keeping a battery or wind-up torch handy – as they're much safer than candles

  • Checking on your elderly or sick neighbours and relatives

  • Ensure you have warm clothing and blankets handy and some food and drink in your home that does not require electricity to heat or prepare it

  • Only call 999 in an emergency