Vector : Prepared For Severe Weather

MetService has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rain and northeasterlies gusting to 120 km/h in exposed places in Auckland on Thursday.
Strong wind gusts have the potential to damage power lines either directly, or indirectly by causing vegetation and debris to blow into lines.
Vector Chief Networks Officer Andre Botha says Vector is preparing for any power outages caused by the severe weather.
'During any weather related incident our first priority is always the safety of the public and our response crews,' said Mr Botha.
'If there are outages to respond to we'll work to get the power back on as quickly as possible.
'Our response crews and storm management teams are on standby and we are actively monitoring the latest advice from MetService and our own data on network performance.
'We remind people to stay away from damaged electrical equipment and report issues via our app or by phoning us 0508 VECTOR.
'In the event that your power goes out, you can keep up to date with restoration work through our outage app'.
Mr Botha said that if the severe weather caused any power lines to come down, Vector would remotely shut down power to that area as a safety precaution before crews arrive on site.
However all downed lines should be treated as live at all times, he said.
'Once a crew arrives, they can physically disconnect lines at the site for extra safety and gradually restore power to customers in the affected area until repairs are completed and power is fully restored. Bad weather can mean this takes a bit more time than usual, and busy roads can also impact how quickly we can get to a site and begin work'.

STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO BE PREPARED

• Download the Vector app to report an outage and stay up to date with restoration progress

• Stay well clear of fallen power lines or damaged electrical equipment and treat them as live at all times.

• Watch out for falling tree branches as these can cause damage to power lines.

• Avoid possible damage to electrical appliances (in the unlikely event there is a power surge when the power is restored) by switching off appliances at the wall.

• Keep a torch and spare batteries handy and ensure that your phones are charged.

• People using medical equipment that relies on electricity should let their retailer know and ensure they are prepared for power disruptions. If there is an immediate health threat, they should contact their health provider or call 111.

• Tie down objects on your property that may be impacted by high winds (ie: trampolines, BBQ's and BBQ covers).

• Stay up to date with the latest weather information from MetService

• Take care if you are driving and consider delaying trips if possible. Do not drive through floodwaters.

• If life or property is at risk, call 111.