Papua New Guinea: Power disruptions occurring in Central Province and National Capital District as of Dec. 22

Event

Sporadic power outages are likely to continue in parts of Port Moresby and Central Province in the coming days. Short-term blackouts have affected several locations in recent weeks, but electricity disruptions have intensified in recent days following severe weather, which PNG Power claims damaged two substations. Government officials have also attributed the outages to an aging and insufficient power grid.

The most severe disruptions have reportedly occurred in Badili, Ela Beach, Kaugere, Koki, Konedobu, Lawes Road, Napanapa, Paga Hill, central Port Moresby, Rainbow Estate, Touaguba Hill, and the University of Papua New Guinea. Short-term disruptions remain possible in other locations in the affected area.

Advice

Charge mobile and essential electrical devices when possible and ensure backup batteries are available. Plan for ground transport delays due to possible malfunctioning or nonfunctional traffic lights in affected areas. Exercise caution when driving in recently impacted areas. Park vehicles in secure areas and complete ground movements before nightfall. Confirm business appointments. Verify that security systems are working. Ensure that generators are functional and refuel devices where necessary.