As Cyclone Alfred sweeps through the region, the Gold Coast and its surrounding areas are experiencing significant power disruptions. Currently, more than 200,000 homes have been affected by the outages, leaving residents in a challenging situation during severe weather conditions.
What’s Happening?
Cyclone Alfred has brought heavy winds and torrential rains that have contributed to power failures across the region. Utility providers are working around the clock to restore power, but the sheer scale of the storm’s impact means that many homes remain in the dark. Residents are advised to monitor updates regularly, as restoration times may vary depending on the severity of damage in specific areas.
Crews will also likely be delayed in getting to some areas with down trees and the impact of TC Alfred crossing the coast in the next several hours.
To stay up to date with outages in your area the Energex Outage Finder, tool offers real-time information on whether power is scheduled for maintenance or unexpectedly interrupted. This resource is available in both map and text formats at Energex Outage Finder.
Safety Precautions During the Outage
In the wake of widespread outages, it is essential to prioritize safety above all else:
- Avoid Fallen Powerlines: Do not approach or touch any fallen powerlines. They could be carrying live electricity and pose a serious risk of electrocution.
- Stay Indoors: With severe weather conditions and unstable infrastructure, it’s crucial to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
- Report Emergencies: If you come across any life-threatening hazards such as fallen powerlines or witness someone in danger from electrical hazards, call emergency services immediately at 000 or 13 19 62.
- Report Outages: To report power outages, contact the dedicated hotline at 13 62 62.
What You Can Do
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with local news and check the Energex Outage Finder for the latest information on power restoration.
- Prepare for Extended Outages: If you haven’t already, ensure that you have emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water.
- Help Your Neighbours: Check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who might need assistance during this challenging time.
Cyclone Alfred has undoubtedly posed a severe challenge for the Gold Coast community. With over 200,000 homes currently without power, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution. Following safety guidelines can help minimize the risk of injury while power restoration efforts continue. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember that your community is working together to overcome this disruption.
For more detailed updates on your area’s power status, use the Energex Outage Finder and keep an eye on local announcements.
