Strong winds across Mandurah caused a tree to fall and significantly damage a powerline along Merrivale Street in Wannanup on Thursday morning.
The incident, that occurred about 10am, left powerlines scatted across the street, footpath and neighbouring fences.
The line was de-energised by a Western Power Emergency Response crew shortly after the tree fell, however it couldn’t be cleaned up immediately as the crews’ assistance was required at a nearby car crash.
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“Ordinarily the crew member would have rolled up the cable and either removed it from site or stored it at the base of the pole for collection by repair crews,” a Western Power spokesman said.
“Before he had a chance to do this step he was contacted by network operations to attend a car accident where a member of the public had hit a pole and was trapped in the vehicle.
“His attendance was a top priority and he left immediately under emergency lights and siren to assist with making the vehicle accident area safe for other emergency crews to work.”
Western Power organised a for a “wire watcher” to stand by the area and advise the public to stay clear.
The City of Mandurah on hand to clear up the tree and direct public away from the area.
Repairs will be completed on the damaged power line on Thursday afternoon.
It is important for anyone who sees a fallen powerline not approach it and stay at least eight meters clear and ‘Make the Safe Call’ to Western Power on 13 13 51.
If you believe it is a life threatening emergency then call 000 first.
