Save It For The Weekend: 18-Hour Power Outage in Gauteng

Gauteng residents should prepare for significant power disruptions next week, with Eskom announcing a two-day, nine-hour power outage scheduled in Soweto. The power utility advises affected residents to “Save It For The Weekend” and plan ahead as it conducts essential maintenance on its distribution network.

The outages will take place on Tuesday, 19 November, and Wednesday, 20 November, from 9:00 to 18:00 each day. Residents in Snake Park Blocks 4, 5, 6, and 7 will be impacted by these maintenance activities.

Why Is Eskom Conducting Maintenance?

Eskom has emphasized the importance of maintaining its distribution power lines to ensure reliable electricity in the future. However, the planned electricity supply interruptions may not proceed if unforeseen circumstances arise. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on any changes to the maintenance schedule via Eskom’s official communication channels.

What Does This Mean for Residents?

Eskom urges customers to treat all electrical appliances as live during the power outages. This precaution helps ensure safety and prevents accidents during the maintenance period.

The utility has apologized for the inconvenience caused and reiterated that these interruptions are necessary to improve long-term service delivery. “Should circumstances beyond our control arise, the planned electricity maintenance may not proceed as communicated,” Eskom said.

How to Prepare for Power Outages

• Plan Ahead: Schedule essential tasks outside of the affected hours. If possible, save energy-intensive activities, like laundry or meal prep, for the weekend.
• Charge Devices: Ensure all phones, laptops, and other essential devices are fully charged before the outage begins.
• Stock Up on Essentials: Keep torches, candles, and a battery-operated radio or power bank handy for communication during the outage.
• Stay Updated: Follow Eskom’s official channels or reputable news platforms for updates on the planned maintenance.

Get Involved

Do you live in Gauteng? How are you preparing for Eskom’s planned power outages? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below or email us at [email protected]. You can also send a WhatsApp message to 060 011 0211 or follow us on Facebook and X for the latest updates.

Stay Informed

For more information on these scheduled outages, visit Eskom’s official site or check out other related news on The South African.