Power network is ready ahead of Storm Francis hitting the region

Fresh off the back of Storm Ellen, which brought strong winds and heavy showers to the North West, the region’s power network operator will again be on standby after forecasters issued a yellow weather warning for Greater Manchester as well as Cumbria and Lancashire.

Storm Francis, named by the UK’s meteorological services, is set to bring gusts of up to 60mph on Tuesday and Wednesday which could cause damage to overhead lines as debris and trees affect the network.

Heavy rainfall is also expected.

During Storm Ellen, engineers restored power to more than 3,500 customers and Mark Mercer, network systems manager at Electricity North West, is confident in the plans put in place.

“We spend millions of pounds each year cutting back trees and improving flood defences which helps ensure our network is resilient as possible,” he said.

“When the weather hits, we implement tried and tested plans to ensure our response can be quick and power is restored as soon as possible.

“We take note of the weather daily and following the Met Office’s yellow weather warning, more engineers will be on standby to ensure we can respond if Storm Francis causes any issues to the network.

“Our engineers and contact centre teams are on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week to respond and if anybody does see any damage to overhead lines or electricity equipment, we urge them to stay away and report it to us immediately by calling 105.”

Residents can stay safe and prepare themselves in the event of potential power cuts by following the advice at www.enwl.co.uk/power-cuts/helpful-tips.

You can view any live power cut information in the region on Electricity North West’s website here or get in touch on social media or by calling 105.