Cornwall Council has urged residents to prepare for possible power cuts as Storm Austen approaches, warning that stormy weather can damage power lines and electrical equipment.
The council has issued advice to help households prepare for potential electricity outages, encouraging residents to take simple precautions before the storm arrives.
Residents are advised to charge mobile phones, power banks and essential medical equipment in advance. Keeping a battery-powered torch and a wind-up radio handy is also recommended in case electricity supplies are disrupted.
Storm Austen is currently developing in the Atlantic The jet stream drives it towards the UK on Thursday into Friday, bringing wet and very windy conditions to some areas Another system is likely to form into the weekend bringing more wind and rain Stay #WeatherAware https://t.co/pjMoq1AEtn
— Met Office (@metoffice) October 21, 2026
The council has also encouraged people to check on neighbours, friends and family members who may need additional support during severe weather, particularly if a power cut affects their access to essential services.
How to report a power cut
National Grid has reminded residents that power cuts and electrical emergencies can be reported 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Anyone experiencing a power cut should contact the network operator as soon as possible. If the operator is already aware of the outage, residents may also be able to obtain an estimated time for their electricity supply to be restored.
Power cuts can be reported by calling 105 or 0800 6783 105. Residents can also enter their postcode into the National Grid power cut map to access the latest outage information and restoration updates.
Updates are available on X via @gridcustomersuk.
Support for deaf and hard-of-hearing residents
People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use Text Relay when contacting the network operator. They should dial 18001 before calling either 105 or 0800 6783 105 to connect with a Text Relay operator.
With Storm Austen approaching, residents are being encouraged to take precautions ahead of possible disruption to electricity supplies. Checking essential equipment, keeping emergency items close at hand and looking out for vulnerable neighbours could help households cope if the power goes out.
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