Thunderstorms Cause Mass Power Outage Affecting 24,000 Homes and Businesses in Geraldton and the Mid West
Severe thunderstorms have triggered a major power outage across Geraldton and the wider Mid West region, leaving more than 24,000 homes and businesses without electricity. The incident, first reported just after 10 pm on Saturday, has caused significant disruption, with Western Power working around the clock to restore service safely and efficiently.
The outage has impacted a wide area, including Geraldton suburbs, Northampton, Port Denison, Dongara, Nabawa, Mullewa, and other surrounding towns. Power restoration is estimated to take up to 22 hours, with full service expected late Sunday evening.
This article provides a detailed overview of the outage, affected areas, emergency response efforts, and safety advice for residents.
Thunderstorms Trigger Widespread Power Failures
The overnight storms caused increased fault levels on two major transmission lines, resulting in a mass disruption of the electricity supply. According to Western Power, severe thunderstorms and high fault levels are likely to cause extended outages in the region.
The mercury reached 38.5°C in Geraldton at 10:08 am on Sunday before dropping to 30.6°C by 11 am, intensifying the urgency for electricity restoration, particularly in households and businesses relying on air conditioning and refrigeration.
Areas Affected by the Power Outage
As of 2 pm on Sunday, Western Power reported that:
- 22,105 customers remain without power across Geraldton and surrounding suburbs,s including Northampton, Port Denison, Dongara, Nabawa, and Mullewa.
- 176 customers in Kalbarri are affected, with an estimated restoration time of 6 pm.
- 1,041 customers across Buller, Bowes, Yetna, Wonthella, Glenfield, Northampton, Isseka, West Binnu, Moresby, Yallabatharra, Nabawa, Sandy Gully, Waggrakine, White Peak, Howatharra, Woorree, Alma, and Oakajee have an estimated restoration time of 8 pm.
- 558 customers in Carnamah, Maya, Marchagee, Waddy Forest, Buntine, Coorow, Eganu, Womarden, Three Springs, Kadathinni, and Latham currently have no estimated restoration time.
Western Power Response and Emergency Measures
Western Power has deployed crews and is using a helicopter patrol to inspect and determine the cause of the outages. A spokesperson confirmed:
“We’ve deployed emergency response generators to power essential infrastructure in the region, expected to arrive and be connected by late afternoon. We thank the community for their understanding as we work to resolve the fault.”
The Mungarra Power Station is undergoing planned maintenance, limiting available backup capacity. Synergy teams are on-site, completing maintenance as quickly as possible to support restoration efforts.
Residents will receive SMS notifications with updates, estimated restoration times, and safety information to help plan their day.
Impact on Geraldton Residents and Businesses
The power outage has significantly affected daily life in Geraldton and the surrounding Mid West region. Many service stations and supermarkets are closed, resulting in long lines at outlets that remain operational.
Local police, in coordination with emergency services, have been patrolling affected areas, urging residents to check on vulnerable neighbours and community members. A respite centre has been opened at the Queen Elizabeth II Community Centre, 88 Durlacher St, available until 5 pm to provide support to those in need.
Mobile phone coverage may also be disrupted in some areas, although major hospitals continue to operate.
Safety Precautions and Public Advisory
Western Power and emergency services emphasise safety during the outage:
- Avoid fallen power lines and maintain at least 8 meters distance.
- Report hazards immediately via Western Power’s 24/7 emergency number: 13 13 51.
- Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours to ensure their safety.
- Use emergency generators safely and avoid overloading household circuits when power is restored.
The Mid West-Gascoyne Police have also posted updates on social media, emphasising community vigilance and cooperation.
Thunderstorm and Weather Context
Severe thunderstorms are not uncommon in Geraldton during the summer months. These storms can generate lightning, heavy rain, and high winds, which may damage infrastructure and lead to widespread power outages.
Meteorologists noted the intensity of Saturday night’s storm was unusual for the region, contributing to the failure of two transmission lines and resulting in extensive disruptions. Residents are advised to remain cautious of localised flooding and storm damage while power is being restored.
Community and Government Response
All relevant government agencies are actively responding to the outage. Police and emergency services have increased patrols and are assisting vulnerable community members.
Western Power has mobilised emergency response generators to maintain essential services. The company’s spokesperson stated:
“Given the large area that needed to be patrolled and the resources required, some customers may remain without power for an extended period.”
Residents are advised to remain patient as crews work to restore electricity safely and systematically.
Estimated Power Restoration Timeline
- Geraldton, Northampton, Port Denison, Dongara, Nabawa, Mullewa: 8 pm Sunday
- Kalbarri: 6pm Sunday
- Buller, Bowes, Yetna, Wonthella, Glenfield, Isseka, West Binnu, Moresby, Yallabatharra, Sandy Gully, Waggrakine, White Peak, Howatharra, Woorree, Alma, Oakajee: 8 pm Sunday
- Carnamah, Maya, Marchagee, Waddy Forest, Buntine, Coorow, Eganu, Womarden, Three Springs, Kadathinni, Latham: No estimated restoration time yet
Tips for Residents During Extended Outages
- Stay cool and hydrated — temperatures remain high, and air conditioning may be unavailable.
- Limit unnecessary travel — fuel stations may be crowded or closed.
- Keep essential supplies ready — food, water, medicines, and batteries.
- Use social media and SMS alerts for updates from Western Power and local authorities.
- Check in on vulnerable neighbours — elderly or disabled residents may require assistance.
Looking Ahead: Infrastructure Resilience
This mass outage highlights the need for improved electricity infrastructure resilience in Geraldton and the Mid West. Experts suggest:
- Upgrading transmission lines to withstand extreme weather.
- Expanding backup power capacity and emergency generator deployment.
- Improving communication channels to provide real-time updates to residents.
- Investing in weather-resistant infrastructure to reduce future outage risks.
Residents and businesses are urged to plan for contingencies during the summer storm season and follow Western Power and emergency services’ guidance.
Conclusion
The Geraldton and Mid West power outage caused by severe thunderstorms has affected over 24,000 homes and businesses, leading to widespread disruption. Western Power and emergency services are actively responding, deploying crews, helicopters, and emergency generators to restore power safely.
Residents are advised to remain cautious, follow public safety instructions, and check in on vulnerable members of the community while restoration efforts continue. With careful planning and coordination, authorities aim to fully restore electricity across the region by Sunday evening.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of electricity infrastructure to extreme weather and highlights the importance of community preparedness during natural events.
