Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution is prepared for a period of unsettled weather across its network area in central southern England this evening (Monday 3 May).

SSEN's current weather model shows strong winds and heavy rainfall forecast across much of the region, with wind gusts building from late afternoon, reaching up to 55mph inland and 60mph along the southern coast. Wind speeds are expected to peak between 7pm and 10pm before gradually clearing in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

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, 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 any loss of supply 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 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

SSEN offers free, additional support to customers that need it through its Priority Services Register (PSR). Customers can qualify 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' and 'extremely high risk' of severe illness from coronavirus.

To find out more about the PSR, click here or call 0800 294 3259.