Residents are being urged to look around their property and store any loose items that could be picked up by wind gusts and blown into the power grid during Monday's predicted storms.
A Western Power spokesperson said during a storm up to 80% of electricity outages were caused by wind-borne debris which includes household items such as chairs, sheds, and trampolines.
The storm predicted by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) today is expected to be the first significant storm front to move through the south-western part of the state since summer.
BOM is predicting possible damaging winds which can blow debris and old branches into power lines and pole-top equipment.
"Our emergency response units and repair crews will be in full strength this morning and throughout the day and are ready to respond to any emergency that may arise," the Western Power spokesperson said.
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"With so many people still based at home it is vitally important that everybody remembers if you see any damage to the network, including falling powerlines, you must stay at least 8 m clear and call us on 13 13 51.
"One of our emergency response teams will be out there as quickly and as safely as possible to address the hazard and make it safe.
"Once hazards are taken care of we will move on to restoration of power.
"We know that there is never a convenient time to be without power which is why we have continued our important works program to power the lives of our customers through the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This commitment to keeping the lights on and computers charged will continue if you're affected by a storm-related outage today.
"We ask that you please be patient and know that we will be working as quickly and safely as possible to restore power to you if it is lost during today's storm."
Daniela Cooper
Daniela has returned to her first love after a decade of working in local, state and federal governments, non-profits and the corporate world. She has a passion for injustice; to be a voice for those who don't have one; to hold power to account; and to bring readers the news without fear. She loves to explore new places and unfamiliar topics (both in her professional and private life) but her go-to loves are travel, health, social justice, foreign affairs and the outdoors. Email daniela.cooper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daniela has returned to her first love after a decade of working in local, state and federal governments, non-profits and the corporate world. She has a passion for injustice; to be a voice for those who don't have one; to hold power to account; and to bring readers the news without fear. She loves to explore new places and unfamiliar topics (both in her professional and private life) but her go-to loves are travel, health, social justice, foreign affairs and the outdoors. Email daniela.cooper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
