Storm update 6 April 2024 10am

Endeavour Energy emergency crews are responding to widespread damage caused by storms overnight which has left 8,200 homes & businesses without power this morning.

Torrential rain and strong winds have brought down trees and branches and caused localised flooding across a wide area with the most significant damage being in Box Hill, Londonderry, Blacktown and Thirlmere.

Crews have worked overnight to patrol storm damaged areas to make them safe and restore power where it was safe to do so be rearranging supply from other parts of the network.

Flash flooding is occurring, and many roads are flooded. The NSW SES has issued evacuation orders for people living in low lying areas along the Hawkesbury River including parts of Pitt Town Bottoms, Cumberland Reach and Sackville. Please do not drive through flood water! If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another way. We are also monitoring rising water levels on the Hawkesbury, Nepean and Colo rivers and have activated our flood safety plans in these areas to protect local communities.

This morning, fresh crews will recommence the extensive work repair required to restore power to affected customers. Repairs are being hampered in some locations due to localised flooding and difficult access from water logging after such significant amounts of rain.

Power is expected to be restored to most customers throughout today, however some isolated pockets may remain without power overnight due to the extensive damage or where crews cannot access the network to make repairs.

Please remember to stay at least 8 metres from any fallen power lines and other damaged electrical equipment, and to be especially careful of damaged infrastructure hidden by fallen trees, branches, and other storm debris.

If you or anyone residing at your home need power for home medical equipment, check your battery supply and consider acting on your back up plan. Contact us now on 131 003 to register for life support.

Thank you for your understanding as our storm response continues.

STAYING SAFE:

• Treat all powerlines as 'live' and dangerous by keeping at least 8m clear of them. Never drive across fallen powerlines!
• Report fallen powerlines immediately by calling us 24/7 on 131 003
• Avoid all contact with wires that are hanging low, on the ground or tangled in trees and other storm debris.
• If you’re using a portable generator for power, stay safe and avoid deadly exhaust fumes entering your home.
• For life-threatening emergencies call 000
• For emergency and rescue assistance call NSW SES on 132 500
• Find estimated power restoration times at www.endeavourenergy.com.au/outage