South Africa: Load shedding to continue through at least Oct. 8 /update 13

Event

Eskom's latest statement issued on Oct. 5 announced load shedding would continue at stage 4 restrictions until 05:00 Oct. 6 and stage 3 until 05:00 Oct. 8. It is likely that load shedding will be further extended, though possibly at lower stages. This is the latest situation update following a series of shutdowns and repairs in power stations across South Africa.

Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are possible while load shedding and unscheduled interruptions are taking place. Cellular and mobile services could be affected. Trains may also experience delays if outages impact signaling devices or overhead wires. Power outages could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services such as ATMs and filling stations.

There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages. Malfunctioning traffic signals could increase disruptions, and the lack of public lighting could increase the risk of driving at night. In areas where pumps are required to supply water to elevated regions, disruptions may occur. These could take the form of temporary water cuts or decreases in water pressure.

Context

Maintenance and breakdowns of generation units have resulted in over 120 days of load shedding in South Africa in 2022.

Load shedding requires switching off parts of South Africa's electric grid in a planned and controlled manner due to insufficient capacity or to avoid a countrywide blackout.

Authorities in the City of Cape Town are likely to continue to implement support measures and supply electricity during load shedding periods. Typically, city supply will move the stage down one level from the Eskom-announced load shedding level.

Advice

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

Develop or review business continuity plan (BCP) sections regarding utility outages. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply. Invest in generators and, if applicable, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Download available warning apps covering planned or unplanned power outages and monitor announcements from the utility.

Resources

Eskom load-shedding schedules
Eskom (Twitter)
City of Cape Town (Twitter)
City of Tshwane (Twitter)
City of Johannesburg (Twitter)