Deadly storms on Australia’s east coast and bushfires in the outback have cut power to thousands of residents this Christmas and Boxing Day.
Queenslanders are now facing several days without electricity amid a widespread heatwave, while outages continue to impact on residents up and down the New South Wales coast and across much of Victoria, where communities are reeling from flash floods.
With more stormy weather on the way, experts share tips on what to do and how to stay safe and comfortable during a power outage.
Before a power outage
Danny Donald, from Energex, says customers should prepare for a power outage as they would a camping trip.
He recommends putting together an emergency kit — ABC Emergency has a full list of what it should contain — starting with a battery-powered radio, LED-battery-powered and waterproof torches (strap a glow-in-the-dark sticker/tape on items to see them in the dark) and a first-aid kit.
“You want to limit the amount of fresh food you have — instead, stock up on non-perishables or grab an esky that you can fill with ice later if you do have food you need to keep cool,” Mr Donald said.
Gathering water containers to last you at least three days is also a major essential, according to government water agency Queensland Urban Utilities.
During a blackout
As soon as a power outage hits, it is a good idea to unplug sensitive electrical appliances such as televisions and computer equipment and make sure electric ovens and stovetops are all turned off, Energex says.
Stay across news and updates by calling your electricity provider if possible, listening to the radio or checking in with neighbours.
It is also a good idea to keep one light switch on so you’ll know when the power returns, Ausgrid advises.
Tip: Strap a headlamp or LED torch to a translucent container of water to provide widespread light to a dark room.
How long will food keep?
Food can last up to four hours in the fridge before it can start to spoil and 48 hours in a freezer, according to the Australian Institute of Food Safety.
Australia’s national science agency, the CSIRO, points out that any goods nearing their use by date (like deli meats and dairy products) are more susceptible to the growth of food-poisoning bacteria than things like fruit and vegetables, which survive warmer temperatures.
If in doubt, throw it out, the CSIRO recommends.
How to keep cool in a summer blackout
With no access to cooling systems and fans, a power outage during a heatwave can exacerbate dangerous conditions.
Tip: Low-cost items like battery-powered fans, wet cloths, sponges and spray bottles for use on the body can make a world of difference in the event power goes out during hot weather.
Closing blinds and curtains during the heat of the day, moving to the coolest part of your home, limiting physical activity and putting your feet in cool water are some easy ways to keep cool in a blackout, according to New South Wales Health.
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing and drinking plenty of water — even if you don’t feel thirsty — are also simple but effective ways of keeping your temperature down.
Elderly people, pregnant women, babies and children are particularly susceptible to the heat, so keep an eye out for signs of heat stress. More information on what to look out for and how to stay cool can be found on the ABC website.
Why is it taking so long for my power to be restored?
Most major power outages involve damaged equipment. The Christmas blackouts were caused by severe, widespread storm damage.
“Our priority is getting power back to as many people as possible, as quickly as we can,” Mr Donald said.
“Crews initiate ‘make-safe’ operations which involve getting powerlines off the roads and making it safe for repair operations.
“We also prioritise the low-hanging fruit — any projects that we can do quickly and easily and get out of the way.”
However, when crews are in the process of repairing equipment, even more damage is often discovered, extending the duration of works.
Residents in Queensland communities hard-hit by the storms could expect to be without power well into next weekend, Mr Donald said.