National Grid is sending text messages to Brits with a power cut warning as the hot weather continues
National Grid has issued a new alert to UK households, warning that ‘power cuts may be more common than usual’. In a text message being sent out to people across the country, the energy company says the hot weather may have an impact on the network.
The text message alert reads: “Hi, this is National Grid. Hot weather can affect the network, so power cuts may be more common than usual. Prepare now so you’re ready if this happens: nationalgrid.co.uk/hot-weather-text.” It continues: “If you rely on electricity for medical reasons or need extra support, we’re here to help. Call 105 or visit: nationalgrid.co.uk/PSR.”
The National Grid’s website says that hot weather can put a strain on the electricity network. It adds: “When temperatures rise, our equipment has to work harder, and so do our colleagues out on the network keeping your power running.” UK households can track if there is a power cut in their area using the website’s postcode checker.
Roisin Quinn, Field Operations Director, said: “During heatwaves, we look after our teams so they can continue to look after you, taking sensible breaks and carrying out more demanding jobs during the cooler parts of the day, when tackling difficult tasks in personal protective equipment is more manageable. This helps us restore power as quickly as we can, while keeping our people safe.”
According to the Met Office, England and Wales have provisionally recorded their driest July on record, with Southern England seeing its driest month ever recorded, in a series dating back to 1836. The dry conditions have been accompanied by exceptional warmth across much of the UK.
Why may you notice more disruption this summer?
The National Grid explains: “This spring and summer have brought some of the warmest weather on record. Met Office data show that all three spring months this year ranked among the top 10 warmest ever recorded, with 40 counties experiencing their warmest spring on record. That heat continued into June, which was England’s warmest on record, with nights staying warmer than usual as well as days.
“Sustained heat like this puts extra pressure on our network. Equipment doesn’t get the chance to cool down overnight, and demand for cooling during the day adds to the strain. Longer heatwaves increase the risk of heat-related faults, which can cause power cuts for our customers.”
How can you be prepared for a power cut?
The National Grid recommends keeping a lantern or torch somewhere that’s easy to find. It adds: “Check that the batteries are working, and always make sure you have a spare set, too.” Candles and paraffin lights can be dangerous, so the energy company does not recommend using them during a power cut.
As the National Grid is in regular contact with the press, it recommends having a wind-up, battery, or solar radio ready, “so you can listen to local radio updates”. It also advises having a power bank or solar charger in the house to keep your mobile or tablet topped up.
The energy company says: “Digital and cordless phones may not work during a power cut, so have one you can plug in directly to stay in contact with family, friends, and the emergency services. Protect all sensitive and valuable electrical equipment with a surge protector. A surge protector guards against damage caused by sudden electrical surges that can happen during a power cut.
“If you have a mains-operated chair lift, check to see if there is a manual release handle. You can use this to return safely to ground level if the power cuts out… You can follow updates on social media channels and our online power cut map.”
How can a heatwave cause power cuts?
The National Grid says that when temperatures rise, electricity demand increases. More homes, schools and businesses switch on air conditioning and cooling systems, putting extra pressure on the network.
At the same time, the heat itself can affect the equipment that keeps your power running. Power lines and insulators expand in high temperatures, and overheating can reduce the efficiency of network equipment.
Overhead lines and underground cables are designed to carry a set amount of current safely, based on expected air or ground temperatures. They also sag more in hot weather, bringing them closer to trees, buildings and the ground.
