Storm Goretti has become the first named storm of 2026 and is due to hit parts of the UK on Thursday and Friday. It is currently forecast to be potentially more powerful than the Great Storm of 1987, with very strong winds and heavy rain or snow.
It is likely to impact on Northern Powergrid’s operating areas in the north east, Yorkshire and north Lincolnshire, potentially affecting some of its eight million customers through possible disruption to the electricity network and power supplies.
Northern Powergrid reassures its customers that its teams are prepared and ready to restore power to any affected areas as safely and as quickly as possible across its network of over 63,000 substations, 60,000 miles of overhead power lines and underground cables.
Customers can keep themselves updated on any power cuts in their area via the website and social media channels – you can find Northern Powergrid on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter). Northern Powergrid may also send out customer text messages.
All customers are encouraged to report power cuts online if possible, or via WhatsApp on 0191 6872254 (8am-8pm Mon-Fri, and 9am-5pm Sat). Customers without online access can also call 105. 105 is a free national service, available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, for reporting or getting information about power cuts, or to report damage to electricity power lines and substations. Callers will be routed to the correct local network operator for their area.
Customers who are already registered for free Priority Services Membership will be contacted separately, and will receive tailored support, for added peace of mind if there is a power cut. Any additional support needs will be taken into account and Northern Powergrid will let customers know when the power is likely to be back on. If you or someone you know would benefit from this kind of extra support, you can register online, email priorityservices@northernpowergrid.com, or call the dedicated Priority Service line on 0800 169 2996.
Tips and advice for powercuts
Obviously, being prepared can’t prevent a power outage, but it can make it a lot more comfortable. The important thing is to stay safe.
Northern Powergrid offers customers advice on its website as well as a YouTube video on unplanned power cuts.
- Turn off electrical appliances at the socket (this is particularly important for heating or cooking appliances as power could be restored at any time, and it might create a safety hazard).
- Leave one light switched on so you’ll know as soon as your power is restored.
- Keep a charged mobile phone (or a charged-up power bank) within easy reach. Make sure it’s got your important numbers saved on it, including the free 105 national power cut phone line. For smartphones, it might also be useful to bookmark the Northern Powergrid map and reporting service.
- Have a battery or wind-up torch somewhere accessible – they’re a lot safer than using candles. Keep your phone torch for short bursts of use, so as not to drain your battery too quickly.
- Have warm clothing and blankets within easy reach, as well as some food and drink that does not require electricity to heat or prepare.
- If you spot any fallen trees, or damage to the overhead power cables, stay well clear of them and call 105 immediately. Do not try to deal with them yourself.
- Remember to check on any elderly or sick neighbours and relatives and make sure they are ok.
- Call 999 only in the event of an emergency.
Adapted from a press release
