Agencies across Cumbria are continuing their response to Storm Arwen and the subsequent power outage which may continue to impact many throughout tonight.
Electricity North West are working to restore power as soon as possible to those who remain without electricity.
Over 50,000 homes have had power restored, however thousands more households may be without electricity overnight.
Aston residents told power will remain off until tomorrow.
Electricity North West have contacted residents on Alston Moor to say that many customers will remain off the grid until tomorrow.
This is due to continued winds which prevent teams from climbing utility poles as well as disruption to the road network due to snow and fallen trees.
More than 110,000 people across North West England have had electricity restored but some 108,000 people still remain without power. With temperatures of -4 predicted on the Moor overnight, the Richardson family of Alston – who don’t have a fire – are preparing for a gruelling 12 hours ahead.
They are wearing woolly hats indoors and have battery powered head torches on.
Police said a co-ordinated effort is underway to support those who are without power, with provisions and supplies being prioritised to those deemed most vulnerable – who agencies are contacting directly, Cumbria police said.
With low temperatures expected to continue throughout the night, motorists are asked to take care if they are travelling.
Some petrol stations have been impacted by the power outage and drivers are encouraged to be mindful of this ahead of any journey.
Many of the roads impacted by the high winds during the past 24 hours have been cleared. Motorists are encouraged to continue to drive to the conditions.
Cumbria police has requested that people kindly continue to look after vulnerable people in their communities; if you are aware of an individual who is vulnerable, please check on them and support them, make sure they have the right medication and provisions. If they do require medication or care, please contact their care provider as soon as you are able.
If you see power lines down, do not approach them. Report them to Electricity North West on 105.
Who to contact:
- If you wish to report a problem on the county’s roads, please contact Cumbria County Council Highways Hotline on 0300 303 2992, or report online via the County Council website.
- For power cuts contact Electricity North West on 105, but please only call if your query is urgent to help prioritise customers in the most vulnerable circumstances.
