Power supply interruption due to strong winds, says Iloilo firm

The Iloilo-based power utility company has scheduled a power interruption due to the strong winds and heavy rains brought about by Typhoon Odette.

The announcement  of More Electric and Power Corporation or More Power was posted on the Iloilo City government social media account.

"Good morning. We are switching off all feeders for safety reason. With the onslaught of Odette, there are many poles that are toppled and are creating sparks putting lives of people at threat," the company said.

"We will put off for at least an hour. We will assess situation by then."

More Power announced that the following areas will be affected by the unscheduled power interruption:

• Iloilo City proper and Molo substations
• Mandurriao, Jaro and Megaworld Substations
• La Paz Substation

Typhoon Odette is currently traversing through Negros island, according to the 2 a.m. bulletin posted by PAGASA.

Iloilo City Jerry Trenas announced that as of 12 midnight, at least 1,043 families or 3,082 individuals from 29 barangays have been evacuated to 39 centers.

"Our team is ensuring that their necessities are provided while they seek a stable roof while the storm passes. Let us all pray for their safety and protection. Please stay safe," he added.

Meanwhile, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) also announced that there are transmission lines in the Visayas and Mindanao area that are currently unavailable.

There are fourteen (14) 138kV lines which are unavailable affecting the entire province of Surigao del Norte, parts of Surigao del Sur, parts of Agusan del Sur, and entire province of Bohol. NGCP’s 350kV HVDC Line and two 230kV lines are also unavailable.

"Inspection and restoration of lines in the affected areas will be in full swing as soon as the weather allows," NGXP said in a statement.

"Please note that loss of power may be caused by affected transmission facilities of NGCP or distribution facilities of local distribution utilities or electric cooperatives. Specific cities and municipalities affected by the power interruptions are determined by concerned Distribution Utilities, unless the outage affects the entire franchise area." -- BAP, GMA News