South West households urged to prepare for power cuts
It's as Storm Austen is set to take hold
Last updated 22nd Oct 2026
National Grid Electricity Distribution is asking customers in the South West to be prepared, in case of power cuts during Storm Austen.
Forecasters say strong winds and heavy rain are due tomorrow, bringing the possibility of power outages and other disruption.
The electricity network is built to be resilient, but extreme weather can impact power supplies. NGED staff will be working around the clock, to restore electricity quickly, if severe conditions cause disruptions.
Chief Operating Officer at National Grid Electricity Distribution, Amy Webb, said: “With Storm Austen approaching, our priority is to be ready for whatever the weather brings. We’ll be monitoring the network closely and have teams ready to respond quickly and safely, if there is any damage."
NGED is asking its 1.6 million customers in the South West to prepare for the storm by:
Keeping a torch handy – avoid using candles or paraffin heaters
Charging phones and battery packs
Monitoring weather forecasts and checking on vulnerable neighbours, friends and relatives
Making sure any medical equipment at home has a battery back-up, if not please contact your medical professional for advice
Customers can report power cuts at National Grid - Homepage or by calling 105 or 0800 6783 105.
People with extra needs can also register for support through National Grid’s free Priority Services Register