Since the storms last night, several short term power outages have affected various regions.

One larger power outage persists, due to a power pole being replaced.

A spokesperson from Essential Energy reports:

"Essential Energy crews are working to restore power to more than 4,400 customers in the Northern Rivers area after lightning strikes and strong winds brought down powerlines last night.

Coastal Operations Manager, Chris Maccoll says crews have worked overnight, repairing damage where possible.

“Significant damage to a major power pole on Riverbank Road at Pimlico required a full replacement. A new pole was brought into the area this morning. Crews from Kyogle and Casino have been deployed to assist local crews from Lismore and Ballina depots to complete repairs as quickly as safety will allow,” Chris says.

Approximately 3,900 homes and businesses remain without power in Woodburn, Coraki, Evans Head and surrounding areas. 

“We had hoped to restore power early this afternoon, but additional challenges have arisen and, to ensure the safety of our customers and our crews, we’ve needed to adjust the estimated restoration time to 6 pm,” Chris says.

“Determining the estimated time of restoration (ETR) for unplanned power outages can sometimes be impacted while the work is progressing. While we endeavour to provide an accurate time to customers, some occasions require us to adjust it.”

Customers are sent an SMS with the ETR as we become aware of it. Those who aren’t receiving a text message are encouraged to contact their energy retailer to ensure their contact details are up to date.

Essential Energy thanks customers for their patience and reminds the public to stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines, power poles or damaged electricity infrastructure and report immediately to 13 20 80. If life-threatening, call triple 0.