WEL NETWORKS news
Lightning strikes cause outages across region
UPDATE 4pm, Tuesday 4 December
WEL spokesperson Mark Keller says “Priority areas have been identified including Te Mata and Whatawhata where transformers and power lines were damaged in the weather event. As crews work to restore power and replace assets customer may experience brief power disruptions.
WEL crews are continuing to restore power and repair power assets damaged by lightning strikes earlier today.
The strikes caused a number of power outages across the Western and Northern parts of the Waikato and in Hamilton city. Crews have been at various sites assessing damage and where possible, making repairs.
“Additional resources have been brought in to assist however your patience is appreciated and a reminder that safety comes first at all time. If the work is unsafe, staff will make the site safe and return to repair the damage at an alternate time.”
Please stay away from downed lines and do not try to remove trees or debris from lines.
Outage updates can be viewed on our website https://outages.wel.co.nz/.
Quick update all.
Due to lightning strikes we have significant power outages across the Western and northern parts of the district. 440 properties around Raglan have lost power.
We have crews preparing to head out to sites.
Have brought in additional staff/ resources.
Key messages:
Safety first at all times for our staff!!!’
Stay away from downed lines.
Don’t try to remove trees or debris.
Power out and not on our website? Call 0800 800 935. Website: https://outages.wel.co.nz/
Will keep you posted during the day.