27 Nov 2019 | 12:34 PM UTC
Australia: Significant power outages reported in Sydney and Blue Mountain November 27
Power outages continue to impact 25,000 households in Sydney and Blue Mountains following storm November 27; power outage to continue in the coming hours, days
Event
As of Wednesday, November 27, significant power outages were reported in around 25,000 households across Sydney and the Blue Mountains since the area was hit by a storm on Tuesday, November 26. Significant transportation disruptions have also been reported as fallen trees and damaged power lines forced several road closures.
The most affected areas have been reported in the north of Sydney, including Lower North Shore and Upper North Shore. Repair operations are ongoing. According to New South Wales' main electricity distributor, Ausgrid, the situation could persist through at least Thursday, November 28.
Further power outages, associated business disruptions, and residual transportation disruptions are expected in the impacted area in the coming hours, days.
Context
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued severe weather warnings in parts of New South Wales (NSW) on November 26. The storm, which hit Sydney with wind gust up to 90 kph (56 mph), prompted several flight cancelations to and from Sydney Airport (SYD).
Advice
Individuals in Sydney and the Blue Mountains are advised to monitor the situation, keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible, to be cautious when driving or crossing streets if traffic signals are not functioning, confirm road conditions prior to travel, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities, including warnings to stay off roads.
