South Africa: Utility imposes widespread electricity rationing February 11

Event

The South African public utility company Eskom introduced power load shedding measures on Monday, February 11, as the company carries out an audit of its services. According to the Eskom board, the company had discovered faults in several of its power generating units and shut many of them down to prevent further issues. Widespread power outages were reported at offices, shops, factories, and residences, particularly in Johannesburg, as the utility implemented "stage four" cuts. The outages were reportedly scheduled to reduce by late Monday, with all disabled power generating units back online by Tuesday, February 12, although further power cuts are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Individuals in South Africa are advised to keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible. In addition, individuals are advised to be cautious when driving or crossing streets if traffic signals are not functioning.