Pole-Top Fires Cause Widespread Power Outages in Perth
Tens of thousands of homes and businesses across Perth remain without power after overnight rain triggered multiple pole-top fires across the city. Western Power Outages has confirmed that at least 40,000 customers were affected according to abc.net.au, with 51 pole-top fires reported by 11:30 AM on Tuesday.
Impact on Suburbs and Traffic
Girrawheen, Beechboro, Hocking, Balcatta, The Vines, Balga, Caversham, Wanneroo, Kelmscott, and Duncraig were among the most severely affected suburbs. Traffic lights were also out in various locations, causing delays for commuters, especially at important crossroads including Altone and Benara Roads in Beechboro and Malaga Drive near Reid Highway.
Cause of Outages
A Western Power spokesperson attributed the outages to “power pole damage due to light, drizzly weather causing pole-top fires.”
“Pole-top fires occur in misty or light rain conditions when accumulated dust and pollutants create conductive tracks on insulators, allowing electricity to arc and ignite infrastructure,” the spokesperson explained. “This tracking electricity can cause components of the power poles to smoulder and burn.”
Restoration Efforts and Timeline
Western power outages have warned that restoration may take some time, with each pole replacement requiring between four and eight hours, depending on the type of pole.
“Given the high number of faults, some customers may experience extended outages,” the spokesperson stated. “Current restoration times are estimates based on similar past events, the number of customers affected, and the distance crews must travel. These times will be updated as damage assessments continue. The current estimated restoration time is 6 PM today. Please visit our website for real-time updates.”
As of Tuesday morning, specific outage numbers included:
- Over 4,000 customers without power in Koondoola, Girrawheen, and Balga
- Another 4,000 affected in Beechboro, Caversham, and Morley
- More than 3,000 impacted in Woodvale, Craigie, Kingsley, and Padbury
- Thousands more in Cockburn Central, Beeliar, Success, and surrounding areas
Emergency Response and Maintenance Plans
Firefighters have been deployed to various affected sites, and authorities are urging motorists to be cautious and aware of emergency responders.
Western Power reassured customers that its maintenance team is continuously working to improve the management of the 860,000 power poles across its network.
“We have a comprehensive maintenance program, which includes preventative measures such as de-energized siliconing and washing, insulator replacements, vegetation management near power lines, and high-pressure cleaning of insulators,” the utility provider stated.
Residents are advised to check Western Power outages official website for ongoing updates regarding restoration efforts.
