Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is preparing for a period of unsettled weather across its central southern England patch from early evening on Wednesday through to late Thursday (10-11 March).

SSEN's current weather model shows heavy rainfall and high winds over the 24 hour period.From Wednesday evening, south westerly gusts are predicted to reach up to 55mph inland with speeds reaching up to 65mph along some coastal regions. Wind speeds will remain around 40-50mph throughout Thursday, before gradually easing by early evening.

In response, SSEN has enacted its well-established resilience plans, with appropriate standby resources in place. SSEN would like to reassure its customers that while you may see increased activity from its teams in your local area over the next two days, engineers will be working in accordance with Government coronavirus guidance, adhering to social distancing measures to ensure the safety of the local community as they work.

If customers see any damaged equipment SSEN urges them to keep a safe distance and report it to SSEN by calling 105 or via its Power Track App, and engineers will investigate as soon as possible.

Customers are being encouraged to be prepared by:

  • Saving the emergency power cut number '105' to your phone to report power cuts or damage to the electricity network
  • Downloading SSEN's Power Track app to give you details of power cuts and restoration times. You can also report power cuts and network damage through the Power Track app
  • Going to SSEN's website where there is a wealth of advice and information on how to deal with a power cut, or to chat live to one of SSEN's advisors via its Webchat service
  • Following SSEN on Facebook and Twitter for regular updates

Customers are eligible for SSEN's Priority Services Register if they:

  • Are deaf or hard of hearing
  • Have a disability
  • Live with children under five
  • Are blind or partially sighted
  • Have a chronic illness
  • Use medical equipment/aids reliant on electricity
  • Are over 60
  • Are categorised at 'high risk' or 'extremely high risk' of severe illness from coronavirus

For more information on the Priority Services Register, click here or call 0800 294 3259.