Eskom Deploys Extra Crews to Restore Power After Severe Weather Hits Four Provinces

Eskom has deployed additional technical teams across several provinces after heavy rain, snowfall, strong winds and extreme cold damaged electricity infrastructure and disrupted power supplies.

KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, Limpopo and the Free State have recorded weather-related faults, with Eskom teams assessing damage and restoring electricity where conditions are safe.

The utility said some repairs are taking longer because road closures, hazardous terrain and continuing bad weather are preventing technicians from reaching affected infrastructure.

Eskom added that the safety of its employees, contractors, customers and communities remains the priority during restoration work.

Eastern Cape faces the biggest access challenges

KwaZulu-Natal has seen electricity restored to most areas affected over the long weekend, including Kokstad, Franklin, Nottingham Road, Underberg, Pietermaritzburg, Margate, Estcourt and Empangeni. Repairs are continuing in areas that remain without supply, while technicians are waiting for access to locations cut off by road closures.

In the Eastern Cape, the Joe Gqabi and Alfred Nzo districts have been among the hardest hit. Snowfall, strong winds and extremely cold conditions have both damaged infrastructure and made restoration work hazardous.

Eskom disclosed that electricity had been restored to about 60% of affected customers in the province, with teams continuing work as weather and access conditions permit.

Limpopo has returned to full supply following its weather-related outages, although Eskom teams remain on standby in case further faults occur.

In the Free State, technicians are assessing damage and carrying out repairs, with additional resources being moved into affected areas where necessary.

Distribution Group Executive Junaid Munshi said teams were working under difficult conditions but remained focused on restoring supply without compromising safety.

The weather-related disruptions also highlight the vulnerability of electricity infrastructure when extreme conditions combine with difficult terrain and restricted access. Eskom said restoration would continue as quickly as conditions allow.

The utility has urged residents to treat fallen or low-hanging power lines as live, stay away from damaged electrical equipment and report hazards immediately. It also warned the public not to attempt to move debris, repair infrastructure or approach damaged poles and transformers.