Engineers from Electricity North West have restored power to around 17,000 customers since Storm Erik brought severe gales to the north west overnight and this morning.

Winds were recorded at 74mph at St Bees.

The region’s power network operator has fixed ten faults and repaired damage to overhead power lines caused by the severe weather and flying debris throughout the morning. 

Engineers will continue to work through the day to restore power to the final 4,375 customers, with the majority of customers, 3,905 located in Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria.

Samantha Loukes, network manager for Electricity North West, said: “Storm Erik has brought some severe gales to our region overnight and this morning, with 74mph winds recorded at St Bees.

“This weather has impacted the network, but I’m pleased to say that we were able to restore some power within minutes and our engineers have also worked in difficult conditions to restore power to customers and they’ll be working through the day to restore the remaining customers as quickly as possible.

“We are still urging people that if they see any damage to our overhead power lines please stay away and report it to us straight away so we can repair it safely.

“We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week if customers need any help or advice.”

Customers can stay safe and prepare themselves in the event of potential power cuts by following the simple advice here www.enwl.co.uk/power-cuts/helpful-tips/. 

You can view any live power cut information in the region on Electricity North West’s website here or get in touch on social media or by calling 105.