A significant portion of Gunnedah experienced a power outage on Saturday due to tree branches falling on the power network.

An Essential Energy spokesperson stated the electricity network protection equipment automatically detected a fault and switched off power to about 1300 homes and businesses in the area.

“The unplanned outage occurred as severe storms impacted parts of the state over the weekend, bringing with them strong winds which brought down many tree branches into powerlines and the power network,” the spokesperson said.

Repair crews found branches on the power network in South Street, which caused the outage.

Areas affected included Conadilly Street and the CBD.

“After ensuring it was safe to do so, the tree branches were removed, and power was restored for most customers around 11.45am. A small number of customers remained without power until around 2pm as repairs to the network were completed,” the spokesperson said.

“Essential Energy reminds everyone to stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines or damaged electricity infrastructure and call Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80, or triple-0 if the situation is life-threatening.”

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