Northern Powergrid has issued an urgent warning to residents across the North East as thunderstorms cause widespread disruption, with power cuts reported in several areas including Jesmond, Bedlington, Easington, and Stanley. The energy grid operator warned that scattered thunderstorms forecast for the region may lead to unexpected power outages, and teams are working to restore electricity as quickly as possible once it is safe to do so.
Power Cuts and Priority Services
On its official website, Northern Powergrid stated: "Scattered thunderstorms are forecast for our regions which may cause unexpected power cuts. Our teams will work to restore power as quickly as possible, once it is safe to do so." The company urged customers to report power cuts online for updates, noting that the website provides the same information available through its Contact Centre. For customers enrolled in the free Priority Services Membership, the grid will contact them to discuss additional help. This membership is available to those who use medical equipment powered by electricity, are of pensionable age, have children aged five or under, have a hearing or visual impairment, live with a serious illness, mobility issue, or mental health condition, or have additional communication needs.
Safety Advice and School Closure
Northern Powergrid advised: "If you are in a dangerous situation, there is risk to life, or you are medically dependent on electricity, please call us on 105. If you have a medical emergency, please call 999 immediately." The disruption has been felt across the region, with Churchill Community College in Wallsend forced to close due to a lightning strike. In an urgent message, the school said: "Unfortunately, due to a lightning strike this morning, causing damage to our school systems, we are closed today. We will provide further updates, but anticipate school should be open on Monday as usual."
Weather Forecast and Warning
People are warned to expect "thunder showers" throughout the day. In Newcastle, thundery showers are forecast until 11am and again between 3pm and 5pm. The yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, which had been in effect from midnight, expired at 10am today. The alert stated: "Many areas missing the worst, but thunderstorms could bring disruption in places during Thursday night and into Friday morning."
