Essential Energy repair crews have been stood down for safety reasons due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

An Essential Energy spokesperson said conditions in the Northern Rivers and Far North Coast continue to be extremely dangerous, hindering restoration efforts for the over 43,000 homes and businesses without power. This number is expected to grow. 

"The largest impact at this stage are in communities between Tweed Heads and Yamba. 

"Crews were stood down at 3am this morning (Friday, 7 March) for safety reasons with no work to recommence until the weather caused by cyclone Alfred has passed. The safety of our crews is paramount. 

"Customers need to be prepared to be without power for several days due to the severity of the damage to the network, the amount of vegetation debris and the locations of flood waters. 

"Customers should be careful when connecting small home generators and be aware of the following:   

• Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring system. An incorrectly connected generator has the potential to cause serious injury   
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions   
• Operate the generator outdoors and away from windows   
• Do not overload the generator with appliances   
• Switch the generator off when refuelling or not in use   

Rose Jackson, Minister for the North Coast, said, "I do want to reassure the community that everything is being done, so that as soon as it is safe to go back in and repair that infrastructure, it will be done.

"Crews are being pre-positioned now with equipment, but it's not safe at the moment. It's not safe for them to out and do that work."

For up-to-date information on impacted locations and estimated restoration times (when known), visit the Essential Energy website outages page. 

If you see fallen powerlines or powerlines in water, please stay away and call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report the damage. In an emergency always call 000.