Shetland, Scotland Residents Suffer Power Outages as Heavy Snowstorm Damage Power Lines; Some Residents Could Still Have No Power Until Week's End

A news report said that residents in Shetland suffered from significant power outages as the snowstorms damaged power lines in the area.

The report also added that some residents in the area will have no power until this week as power lines begin restoring power.

(Photo : by Leon Neal/Getty Images)
Alexandra Park on December 12, 2022 in London, England

Previous reports said that a cold weather alert was issued in portions of England due to the health risks from freezing temperatures, expecting a temperature drop at night.

The freezing temperatures, fog and icy roads caused significant travel disruptions and slowed commutes as many people in the United Kingdom prepared for the Christmas Holiday.

On the other hand, many residents were worried about the expensive cost of heating systems and soaring electric bills.

The report said that many were considering turning off their heating due to the high prices, while many have thought of other options, including electric blankets.

Hot water bottles were sold out on Monday, as many were used to alleviate the colder temperatures.

Furthermore, health officials warned that the extreme cold weather could cause cold-related health risks, especially older adults are vulnerable.

Power outages and restoration

The snowstorms affecting portions of England resulted in power outages in Shetland homes, mainland Scotland and Orkney, according to The Guardian's recent report.

It is further reported that about 100 engineers were deployed in affected areas to restore power after the heavy snow caused power interruptions as heavy snow and ice turned down power lines.

According to the report, Graeme Keddie, from SSEN corporate affairs, explained that the extreme weather event in Shetland was the worst since 1995, adding how the cold weather managed to turn down the electricity network in the region.

Also Read: Yellow Snow, Ice Warning Extends to North-east England, Northern Scotland Until Friday; School Suspensions, Travel Delays Possible

The sudden power outages affected the West Mainland, Voe, Brae, Yell and Whalsay.

The report added that residents in the West Mainland could have no power until the weekend.

In other parts of England, the cold weather caused road accidents due to slick and slippery roads.

Motorists planning to travel are advised to observe the weather conditions before leaving.

Meanwhile, residents in Shetland were advised to stay at home as engineers had to brace for the colder weather to restore the power there.

As many residents could resort to generators, it is best to use them with caution because misusing generators could harm you and your family.

Community efforts

The Guardian news report explained that the Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) deployed about 15 emergency crews to help restore the power of over 2,800 homes in the area.

Although the area suffered from widespread power outages, the report explained that the affected residents provided community support to help each other.

On the other hand, the team deployed in the area would do their best to immediately restore the power as the cold weather conditions could be challenging for many residents at night.