Powercor spokesman, Alistair Perkins said strong winds are impacting parts of the network which is leading to localised outages.
“Our crews and controllers are currently working to restore power to about 6,156 customers as safely as possible,” he said.
Earlier on Friday, Powercor crews responded to a fault on the Murray Valley Highway that impacted residents in Yarrawonga and surrounding areas.
As of 11.30am, power has been restored to all but one property.
“Due to the catastrophic fire danger conditions, we are operating safety settings on our network in a very sensitive mode to reduce the risk of fires,” Mr Perkins said.
“These devices are designed to keep communities safe but do increase the likelihood of power outages occurring during these extreme conditions.
“In many cases, crews will need to patrol the lines to make sure they are safe before power can be safely restored, and this may mean restoration times are longer than usual.”
Customers are being updated on restoration times via SMS, Powercor’s outage map and customer contact centre.
“We are encouraging people to take action now to prepare for today’s challenging conditions and ensure power outages are part of your emergency plan.” Mr Perkins said.
“Bushfires can damage electricity infrastructure and affect electricity supply to properties, impacting equipment such as electric water pumps.
“If our assets are damaged by a bushfire, it may take several days before crews can safely access sites and complete repairs to electrical infrastructure.
“Extreme conditions can also bring down powerlines; if you see a fallen powerline, always assume they are live, stay well away and report them to us on 13 24 12.
“We understand how difficult it is to be without power on such a challenging day, and we are doing everything possible to get power back on safely.”
Earlier
As some residents continue to swelter without airconditioning, Powercor is still unable to provide an estimated time the power will be restored.
Investigations are continuing into the power outage which has impacted residents east of Yarrawonga through to Bundalong and south from Wilby to Burramine and Tungamah.
Power was lost on Thursday evening from just after 7.30 pm before being restored at around 10.30 pm, then subsequently affected at about 6am this morning.
Powercor is unable to provide an estimated time the power will be restored at this stage.
For more information go to https://www.powercor.com.au/power-outages-and-emergencies/live-outage-map/
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