Energex has warned the State that Queenslanders should be prepared for power outages and fallen powerlines and be ready to report them in as the storm season approaches.
Executive General Manager, Operations at the utility, Paul Jordon said recent severe weather events were a sharp reminder of what to expect from a third La Niña weather event.
“We are again facing a higher risk of severe thunderstorms, flooding and cyclones, which can cause major damage to the electricity network, both overhead and underground,” Mr Jordon said.
“Please report fallen powerlines, sparking pillar boxes and any network damage you see to Energex (13 19 62) or call emergency services (000).”
He said the public should always stay well away from any grounded wires and faulty equipment because they might be life-threatening.
“Don’t assume we know about it or that somebody else has reported it,” Mr Jordon said.
“The more detailed information we have from the community, the better we can respond, make the area safe, and get your lights back on.”
He said that where the ground was already saturated there was a greater chance of large trees toppling and bringing down powerlines.
“We have a robust vegetation management program to reduce the risk of damage from trees, and we also appreciate members of the public spotting and reporting any branches growing too close to powerlines,” Mr Jordan said.
“We can then assess the risk and respond appropriately,” he said.
“Please don’t attempt to trim trees near lines yourself — it’s a high-risk job that should be left to professional arborists trained to work near overhead powerlines.”
The General Manager said November marked the official start of the cyclone season, so now was the time to get houses in order.
“Restock your storm kit, clean up your yard, and check the condition of your generator before you need to use it,” Mr Jordan said.
“It is essential that all Queenslanders be prepared for the possibility of prolonged power outages because it takes time for weather conditions to ease, damage to be assessed across a wide area and extensive network repairs to be completed,” he said.
