Energy regulator Ofgem has today published a damning report into how Northern Powergrid handled Storm Arwen.

The storm battered the Harrogate district and much of the UK in November and caused widespread disruption to homes and businesses. Over one million customers lost power as winds hit 98mph.

The storm struck during bitterly cold weather and left some rural homes in the district, including in Beckwithshaw and parts of Nidderdale, unable to cook or heat their homes.

Northern Powergrid is the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire.

Six-month review

Ofgem published its findings after a six-month review into how Northern Powergrid, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks and Electricity North West responded to the storm.

The review focused on whether the power outages could have been prevented and whether correct and timely information was given to customers.

A fallen tree in Jennyfields during the storm.

It also looked at whether power was restored quickly enough and how customers were supported after the storm including the processing of compensation payments.

It found some households remained off power for an “unacceptable” amount of time, received poor communication from their network operator and compensation payments took too long.

It highlighted Northern Powergrid in particular for not contacting vulnerable customers prior to the storm.

Read more:

• Fire Brigades Union ‘seriously concerned’ over cuts to Harrogate service
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Below standards

The report warned Northern Powergrid that the performance at its call centre fell below standards, which could be a breach of licence conditions.

It also suggested that some of the electricity poles that fell onto power lines were susceptible to damage because of their age, although it said this needs further investigation.

Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said:

“The frequency of extreme weather events is only set to increase so it is really important that industry, and those involved more widely, learn from Storm Arwen to better respond in future.”

The three energy firms have already agreed to pay nearly £30m in compensation to affected customers but following the report, they have agreed to pay a further £10.3m.

Read the report in full here.

Northern Powergrid’s response

Phil Jones, chief executive of Northern Powergrid, has published a full response to the Ofgem report on its website.

Mr Jones said:

“As we said at the time, we understand how challenging Storm Arwen was for our customers and we are sorry for the difficulty and disruption it caused to their lives. We appreciate the patience that they showed and the dedication of our team who worked through some of the most difficult conditions we have ever faced.

“The extreme nature of the event meant we learned some difficult lessons. It highlighted some limitations in our systems and showed us things we can do to be able to provide a stronger response to more extreme storms. We are committed to doing those things to make the communities that we serve more resilient to extreme weather events.”

Recent stormy weather has prompted celebrated Harrogate Historian Malcolm Neesam to look through his records at some of the great storms of the past, several of which were described by historian William Grainge:

The winter of 1799 was one of the worst ever recorded in northern Europe. One local victim was a Mr Swires, who, on February 8, set out on horseback to ride to Skipton. A terrific snow storm set in towards evening, and after stopping to dine at an inn on Hopper Lane,  he resumed his journey, despite the entreaties of the landlord. Alas, he never reached his destination, but three weeks later, as the snow melted, he was found standing upright with his arm around a gatepost, evidently trying to reach Redshaw Hall.

There was very odd weather in 1826, when Yorkshire experienced the severest frosts and biggest snow drifts remembered by any one alive.  In the summer the heat was equally uncommon and intense, and thunder storms were of great fury and of frequent occurrence.  Several agricultural workers were killed by enormous hailstones, and on June 28, the thermometer was at 85° on Saturday and Sunday in the shade, and in the sun at 124°.  Such was the drought and sultriness of the weather, that even in the midst of the hay harvest, prayers were offered up in the churches and other places of worship for rain.  The following month saw devastating fires on the moors, with Ilkley Moor losing  500 acres.

In 1839, the most terrific storm of wind known in England during the nineteenth century passed across the country on January 7.  Liverpool was the heaviest sufferer where no less than 116 lives were lost; and many ships were wrecked, swamped or cast ashore, and many buildings reduced to ruins.  Leeds also suffered very heavily, especially its churches, and manufactories; the towers and spires of the former and the tall chimneys of the latter falling before the blast.  In short no town, no village, and scarcely a single homestead which stood in its track, escaped without some marks of its fury.  Haystacks and cornstacks were overturned, torn to pieces and scattered at random all over the country.  Trees which had stood the storms of centuries crashed to the ground, and the trees in artificial plantations on high ground were literally prostrated by thousands.

Harrogate, considering its exposed situation, did not suffer as much as might have been expected; a few of its finest trees were blown down, chimneys toppled over; and slates from the roofs of houses scattered in great profusion.  No lives were lost, but one escape was little less than miraculous – a large stone chimney on the west side of the Swan Hotel was blown down, crashed through the roof making a hole nine feet square; two of the daughters of Mr Jonathan Shutt, the proprietor were sleeping in a bed directly beneath it, one side of the bedstead was completely broken down and the whole of it, and its occupants covered with the rubbish; but the broken spars and timber had fallen in such a manner that the young ladies were protected from the direct impact of the falling mass, escaped comparatively unhurt, one of them only receiving a slight scratch on the cheek. Some large elms which grew in a field south of the Dragon Hotel were blown down, and out of the trunk of one of them were formed the first seats for the use of visitors that were placed on Harrogate Stray.

A severe storm shook the locality on the afternoon of June 3 1858, when the Bramhope Tunnel on the North Eastern Railway gave way at the Leeds end, and the water rushed through in a perfect torrent, and with tremendous noise.  A train proceeding through the tunnel at about six o’clock in the evening was met by the current, and forced to put back; this was effected very slowly, the train being in the tunnel more than an hour.  On its re-arrival at the north end, the accumulation of rubbish had been made so great, that the passengers had to leave the carriages, and walk back to Arthington.  They were subsequently sent round by York, and reached Leeds about midnight.

The author recalls the great gale of 1962, when on Monday 12 February, hundred mile an hour winds lashed Nidderdale, causing a fearful amount of damage. In Harrogate, there were town-wide powercuts, disruption to the railways, and the loss of no less than 800 trees, four lamp columns, and massive destruction at the Harlow Hill nurseries. Many roofs were torn away, and dozens of town centre shops lost their windows. At Knaresborough, the war memorial was partly blown down, and the Town Hall bell tower came crashing through the roof.

Read More: 

• Malcolm Neesam History: the colourful past of what could become Harrogate’s first mosque
• When legendary wrestlers Big Daddy and Giant Haystacks came to Harrogate
• Roller skating, Woolies and Carrington’s: Memories of the Harrogate diaspora

Did you know? 

The Stray Ferret and the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID) have worked with Malcolm Neesam to produce two fantastic history audio tours of Harrogate.  Both last about an hour and are easy to do. The first will take you back to the golden age of Harrogate’s Victorian Spa days, the second will take you through the heart of the shopping district, stopping to learn about historic buildings as you go.  To take a look click here. 

North Yorkshire County Council has installed an extra 13 roadside weather stations on remote roads to alert drivers to treacherous road conditions during bad weather.

It means there is now a total of 23 weather stations across the county, powered by solar and wind technology, that display up-to-date images of road conditions on the council’s website.

The Harrogate district is covered by one new station on the A658 Harrogate bypass as well two others in Low Burton, near Masham, and Greenhow Hill near Pateley Bridge.

The images can be monitored by commuters but will also be used by highways teams to track conditions.

“The introduction of more weather stations over recent months marks a huge step forward in our winter service delivery.

“Many of North Yorkshire’s roads pass over the high ground of the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, resulting in dangerous driving conditions at times during the winter months.

“The stations broadcast up-to-date images to anybody who views our website. They allow you to see what road conditions are like before you even leave the house.”

A power cut on Beulah Street in Harrogate this morning has forced several businesses to close.

It is not known if the outage is related to Storm Arwen, which is still affecting electricity supply in the district.

Costa Coffee, British Red Cross, Aplifon Hearing Centre are all closed. At CEX the lights are not working but the tills and card reader are so they can still serve customers who must wait outside.

Power went off at about 8.30am and was still off at the time of publication. It is expected to return later today.

James Buckley, supervisor at CEX, said there are several different power lines on Beulah Street, so businesses on the other side of the road are open as normal.

He said:

“We are in darkness. It’s a health and safety issue, but we can still sell stuff but not let customers into the store.”

Connie Lancaster, assistant manager at the British Red Cross, decided to close completely until the power comes back on. She has been unable to get more information from Northern Powergrid due to telephone wait times of almost two hours.

She said:

“We’ve been very unlucky”.

Read more:

• Harrogate Theatre panto returns to the stage today following leak
• Plans submitted to demolish former Harrogate Debenhams

Many homes in the district are still without power following Friday night’s storm, according to a live map by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire.

One reader, who asked not to be named, said the rural area of Skelding, half a mile away from Grantley village, told us last night:

“We feel forgotten about. We were given a tiny bit of power on Saturday night at 7pm so 21 hours of nothing. However this wasn’t enough for most lights, boilers, washer or ovens. Then this afternoon came the good news that Grantley village and school are back on full power however the farms and houses in Skelding are now without anything

Another reader from Grantley said her family had booked into a hotel when temperatures in their house plunged to six degrees centigrade.

The show will go on! Harrogate Theatre has confirmed the pantomime will resume today after the weekend performances were cancelled because of a leak caused by Storm Awern.

Opening night of Cinderella went ahead as scheduled on Friday but the magic of the panto then had to be put on hold when the storm struck later that night.

Four matinee and evening performances were cancelled on Saturday and Sunday.

The theatre is currently covered in scaffolding due to a £1 million roof restoration project, which began in May. Work was due to be completed by November but has been delayed into next year.

However, the theatre confirmed in a statement this morning that today’s 10am showing and future performances would go ahead.

Councillor Graham Swift, Harrogate Borough Council’s cabinet member for resources, enterprise and economic development said:

“The protective, temporary sheeting over the Harrogate Theatre roof was one casualty of this disruptive weather, which led to water ingress to a small area of the building including the stage.

“Emergency repairs were carried out over the weekend and all necessary safety checks have now been completed today. I am therefore delighted to confirm that the theatre building can now be re-opened and the pantomime can re-start again, as scheduled.”

Read more:

• Harrogate Theatre panto tickets selling fast
• Oh yes he is! Tim Stedman stars in Harrogate panto as Buttons

Those who missed the show at the weekend have been offered the chance to re-book for future performances. The theatre said there are still plenty of tickets available in January.

Ticket holders can also apply for a refund, put credit onto their theatre account for future shows or leave a donation.

Storm Arwen’s impact is still being felt with more than 700 homes still without power, some since Friday.

According to a live map organised by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, more than 700 homes are without power.

The areas most affected are the HG3 and HG4 postcode, particularly Birstwith, Hampsthwaite and Spofforth.

We will keeping this live blog full of updates as we get them.

Have you been affected by the storm? Please send updates on the situation where you live to contact@thestrayferret.co.uk with a description of what has happened, where and any pictures.

1.50pm – Phone signal drops in Summerbridge

Reports of a loss of phone signal are still coming from outlying villages such as Summerbridge.

One Stray Ferret reader got in touch to say she lost phone signal around midday today, her colleagues are also without.

Similar reports came in after Friday night’s bad weather, the situation with signal and power to homes looks to be ongoing.

7.15am – Local resident books in to hotel due to lack of power at home

A Stray Ferret reader has got in touch to say after having no heating or hot water and being unable to cook since Friday evening left her choosing to book into a hotel.

She has called on Northern Powergrid to make updates more specific so she can see the progress on works affecting her.

November 29

7.05am – Northern Powergrid said it is still working to restore power to homes 

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, tweeted overnight to say its engineers were working through the night to try and restore power to homes still without.

Our teams are working into the night and engineers from across the UK are ready to support our continued response to #StormArwen

Read more – https://t.co/1rrcpUqWAs

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 29, 2021

Yesterday, it told customers they may be “off supply for long periods” due to some areas needing intensive work. It has said all planned work has been postponed so teams can focus on getting customers back on supply.

3.17pm – North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum update

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which coordinates the country’s emergency response to incidents, says “emergency services, councils and utilities services continue to work together across North Yorkshire to deal with the aftermath of Storm Arwen”.

The update adds:

“Whilst the strong winds have dropped, some homes and business are still being affected and there remain issues with snow and ice across much of the county.

“Northern Powergrid continues to work to restore power to homes and businesses in the area.  We know, however, that some homes in parts of North Yorkshire continue to be affected.

“The Northern Powergrid website has details of when affected areas are likely to have power restored – www.northernpowergrid.com – using a live interactive map.”

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Neil Irving said:

“With an issue like this storm and the wintry weather that’s followed, it’s really important that we work together closely to make sure that those who need help are able to get it.

“Our joint response across emergency services, organisations delivering important infrastructure, and local councils providing support to people, mean that we’ve been able to combine and target our help more effectively.”

2.29pm – Weather warning for ice begins at 3pm

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice in the Harrogate district.

The warning comes into force at 3pm today and ends at 10am tomorrow.

Temperatures are forecast to fall to about freezing tonight in Harrogate but in remote areas, such as Greenhow Hill, it will feel like minus eight degrees centigrade.

The Met Office says:

• Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, making accidents more likely and journey times longer.
• Icy surfaces likely, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

1.51pm – Northern Powergrid update: 40,000 homes still affected

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has issued another update saying this is the largest storm to affect its network for 15 years.

It says power has been restored to 200,000 of 240,000 homes that suffered loss of supply. It is drafting in engineers from Northern Ireland Electricity and UKPN to resolve outstanding problems.

In a statement, it said:

“All resources available are deployed, including contractors, and the network operator, as part of an industry mutual aid agreement, has also secured additional teams from other UK network operators to bolster its response and assist with the complex permanent repairs needed following the impact of the storm.

“With more than 700 (of 1,100) incidents still to address, there is a huge amount of work to be completed. Many of the faults will require intensive work and are localised with smaller numbers of customers associated, which means some customers will remain off supply for long periods as the network operator works through this programme.

“Northern Powergrid’s teams are identifying those at risk of being off supply for more than another 24 hours so customers can make alternative arrangements.”

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s major incident manager, said:

“The storm was well forecasted and despite being prepared, Storm Arwen resulted in damage of a scale and intensity not seen for 15 years.

“We’re sorry that some customers are still without power despite the huge effort by our colleagues. We understand the impact this has on peoples’ lives particularly at this time of year.

He said the company was unable to keep pace with requests for info, adding:

“We pride ourselves on being able to keep our customers informed and we are doing everything possible to keep people updated using all available channels including social media. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address this.”

1.46pm – Power problems persist in Beckwithshaw

Reader Katharine Thompson informs us power has not returned to some homes in Shawfield Head in HG3

“We are only getting pre-recorded messages from Northern Powergrid when we ring their number despite being told we will get text updates.

“The last message said there were 54 houses in this postcode and 2 Leeds postcodes still without power. They estimate supply will be returned by midnight tonight but we are not holding out much hope.”

A Beckwithshaw family has booked into Rudding Park hotel to escape its freezing home after two days without power.

Sylvia Skipper’s home was among thousands in the district to lose electricity when Storm Arwen struck late on Friday.

Power has returned to most but about 800 properties in the Harrogate district are still affected, according to a live map by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire.

Ms Skipper, who lives on Shaw Lane, said her family had been without power since 9.20pm on Friday. There has been no hot water or heating, despite the freezing conditions, and they have been unable to cook. She said:

“Our house yesterday afternoon was minus one degrees.

“We couldn’t take any more and are now staying at Rudding Park. We have no idea whether power will be restored today.

“This is inhumane. We have lost faith as we have been forgotten about.”

Northern Powergrid’s live map shows 660 homes are without power in the Summerbridge and Bishop Thornton area, along with 60 in Spofforth, 30 in North Stainley, 20 in Pannal, 20 in High Birstwith, 20 in Kirkby Malzeard, fewer than 10 in Knaresborough, fewer than 10 in Greenhow Hill.

Ms Skipper said:

“The communication from Northern Powergrid has been dreadful.

“Until this afternoon we didn’t even have a phone signal on top of this so we had to venture in the car so that we could communicate with Northern Powergrid.

“I have seen their Twitter updates about providing hot drinks and support to numerous areas in the North East yet there has been absolutely nothing for us or our neighbours.”

Read more:

• Storm Arwen: More than 700 Harrogate district homes still without power
• Harrogate mum who struggled to feed kids wants to break stigma

Steve Crisp, whose home between Beckwithshaw and Leathley is also without power, said:

“I keep trying to access Northern Powergrid but the website is unreliable and this morning when I rang and confirmed I would like to wait to speak to someone the system just cut me off.

“Patience and Dunkirk spirit being stretched!”

He and his wife were luckier than some because they had a log burner, which provided heat and a means to cook beans on toast.

‘One of worst storms for 20 years’

Northern Powergrid’s latest update at 11pm last night said it had restored power to around 208,000 of the 240,000 customers. About 100 engineers from other power companies had been drafted in to help. It added:

“The scale of damage in some locations is so extensive that in some cases, large sections of overhead lines will need to be rebuilt in order to restore supplies.

“Where it can, Northern Powergrid is deploying temporary fixes that get customers back on supply whilst its teams coordinate the necessary permanent repairs to get the region’s power network back to full strength.

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s major incident manager, added:

“The impact from Storm Arwen has been one of the worst we’ve experienced in the last 20 years.”

Storm Arwen’s impact is still being felt with more than 700 homes still without power, some since Friday.

According to a live map organised by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, more than 700 homes are without power.

The areas most affected are the HG3 and HG4 postcode, particularly Birstwith, Hampsthwaite and Spofforth.

We will keeping this live blog full of updates as we get them.

Have you been affected by the storm? Please send updates on the situation where you live to contact@thestrayferret.co.uk with a description of what has happened, where and any pictures.

1.50pm – Phone signal drops in Summerbridge

Reports of a loss of phone signal are still coming from outlying villages such as Summerbridge.

One Stray Ferret reader got in touch to say her and her colleagues lost phone signal around midday today.

Similar reports came in after Friday night’s bad weather, the situation with signal and power to homes looks to be ongoing.

7.15am – Local resident books in to hotel due to lack of power at home

A Stray Ferret reader has got in touch to say after having no heating or hot water and being unable to cook since Friday evening left her choosing to book into a hotel.

She has called on Northern Powergrid to make updates more specific so she can see the progress on works affecting her.

7.05am – Northern Powergrid said it is still working to restore power to homes 

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, tweeted overnight to say its engineers were working through the night to try and restore power to homes still without.

Our teams are working into the night and engineers from across the UK are ready to support our continued response to #StormArwen

Read more – https://t.co/1rrcpUqWAs

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 29, 2021

Yesterday, it told customers they may be “off supply for long periods” due to some areas needing intensive work. It has said all planned work has been postponed so teams can focus on getting customers back on supply.

3.17pm – North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum update

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which coordinates the country’s emergency response to incidents, says “emergency services, councils and utilities services continue to work together across North Yorkshire to deal with the aftermath of Storm Arwen”.

The update adds:

“Whilst the strong winds have dropped, some homes and business are still being affected and there remain issues with snow and ice across much of the county.

“Northern Powergrid continues to work to restore power to homes and businesses in the area.  We know, however, that some homes in parts of North Yorkshire continue to be affected.

“The Northern Powergrid website has details of when affected areas are likely to have power restored – www.northernpowergrid.com – using a live interactive map.”

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Neil Irving said:

“With an issue like this storm and the wintry weather that’s followed, it’s really important that we work together closely to make sure that those who need help are able to get it.

“Our joint response across emergency services, organisations delivering important infrastructure, and local councils providing support to people, mean that we’ve been able to combine and target our help more effectively.”

2.29pm – Weather warning for ice begins at 3pm

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice in the Harrogate district.

The warning comes into force at 3pm today and ends at 10am tomorrow.

Temperatures are forecast to fall to about freezing tonight in Harrogate but in remote areas, such as Greenhow Hill, it will feel like minus eight degrees centigrade.

The Met Office says:

• Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, making accidents more likely and journey times longer.
• Icy surfaces likely, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

1.51pm – Northern Powergrid update: 40,000 homes still affected

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has issued another update saying this is the largest storm to affect its network for 15 years.

It says power has been restored to 200,000 of 240,000 homes that suffered loss of supply. It is drafting in engineers from Northern Ireland Electricity and UKPN to resolve outstanding problems.

In a statement, it said:

“All resources available are deployed, including contractors, and the network operator, as part of an industry mutual aid agreement, has also secured additional teams from other UK network operators to bolster its response and assist with the complex permanent repairs needed following the impact of the storm.

“With more than 700 (of 1,100) incidents still to address, there is a huge amount of work to be completed. Many of the faults will require intensive work and are localised with smaller numbers of customers associated, which means some customers will remain off supply for long periods as the network operator works through this programme.

“Northern Powergrid’s teams are identifying those at risk of being off supply for more than another 24 hours so customers can make alternative arrangements.”

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s major incident manager, said:

“The storm was well forecasted and despite being prepared, Storm Arwen resulted in damage of a scale and intensity not seen for 15 years.

“We’re sorry that some customers are still without power despite the huge effort by our colleagues. We understand the impact this has on peoples’ lives particularly at this time of year.

He said the company was unable to keep pace with requests for info, adding:

“We pride ourselves on being able to keep our customers informed and we are doing everything possible to keep people updated using all available channels including social media. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address this.”

1.46pm – Power problems persist in Beckwithshaw

Reader Katharine Thompson informs us power has not returned to some homes in Shawfield Head in HG3

“We are only getting pre-recorded messages from Northern Powergrid when we ring their number despite being told we will get text updates.

“The last message said there were 54 houses in this postcode and 2 Leeds postcodes still without power. They estimate supply will be returned by midnight tonight but we are not holding out much hope.”

1.24pm – Yorkshire Water update

https://twitter.com/YorkshireWater/status/1464946526707453952

1.13pm – Power returns to Washburn Valley

Victoria Oldham, the Conservative councillor for Washburn Valley, has messaged to say that power has returned to Washburn Valley.

It had seemed like a long, cold, snowy day was in store for residents after Northern Powergrid advised power was likely to be off all day so this news will be most welcome on this bitterly cold November day.

Is anywhere in the Harrogate district still without power? Email us at contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

11.51am – Northern Powergrid deploys customer support vehicle

Unfortunately the vehicle is in Wooler town centre in Northumberland. Many people are struggling for updates on the situation where they live so as welcome as this is for people further north, it means the waiting continues for local people still without power.

Our Customer Support Vehicle is outside the Black Bull in #Wooler.
Joe and John from Team Powergrid are providing hot drinks, bottled water, flasks with hot water and winter warmer packs for those with out power.

'

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 28, 2021

10.18am – Washburn Valley expected to be without power until midnight

Victoria Oldham, the Conservative councillor for Washburn Valley, has tweeted that her ward is likely to be without power until midnight.

This is bad news for people in Dob Park, Norwood, North Rigton, Low Snowdon, Fewston, Blubberhouses and the villages in between.

Please keep us informed with the situation in your area by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

So the latest news from @Northpowergrid is that electricity will be restored by midnight in the Washburn Valley. It has been off since 10p.m. on Friday.
The landline has died, but at least the mobile signal is back. Happy Sunday everyone.

— Victoria Oldham (@VictoriaOldham4) November 28, 2021

9.47am – Power restored to another 8,000 homes

Northern Powergrid has just issued another update. That means about 50,000 homes are still affected.

We've restored power to a further 8,000 customers. Our teams continue to do all we can to safely restore power following significant damage to our network by #StormArwen pic.twitter.com/6d0YkZRO0R

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 28, 2021

9.16am – 58,000 homes still without power

An overnight update by Northern Powergrid revealed it had restored power to around 182,000 of some 240,000 homes and businesses whose supplies were affected by Storm Arwen. It added it hoped to “restore power to the 58,000 customers still affected as soon as we can”.

It is not known how many of those affected are in the Harrogate district, with many people reporting on social media they have been unable to get through to Northern Powergrid for further information.

The company’s update said it was responding to 700 of some 900 instances of damage. It added:

“Today has been one of the most challenging we have seen in over a decade with our teams being unable to safely climb for over 24 hours, due to the storm force winds.  Although this has been frustrating, safety of our people is paramount. We have focused our efforts on work which could be completed to assess the scale of damage and response needed to repair the network.

“The storm has caused varying degrees of damage across the whole of our operating area, with the North East region taking the brunt of the storm. Fallen trees and flying debris have damaged electricity infrastructure in numerous locations and travel conditions remain challenging in some places.

“Our customer support vehicles have been deployed in communities, wherever possible, to support customers and we continue to work with the British Red Cross and multi-agency partners to support those most vulnerable.

“If weather conditions remain as forecasted, from first light we will use our helicopter to spot damage locations and inform its teams on the ground.

“Please remember that anyone who spots any damaged cables or equipment must not approach the area as equipment may still be live and pose a risk of electrocution but should contact us immediately by calling 105.”

8.26pm – Northern Powergrid urges people without power to ‘seek alternative accommodation’

It is still unclear how many people in the Harrogate district are without power but those that are have been told not to expect it to return tonight.

Northern Powergrid has said problems are expected to persist ‘through the night and into tomorrow’. Not the best news with temperatures in the district forecast to fall to minus three degrees centigrade tonight.

If you are still without power, it is very likely that you will be off through the night and into tomorrow.

If you can seek alternative accommodation with family and friends it is recommended to do so – or if you know someone without power, consider if you can offer support. pic.twitter.com/ppQnxCl4ra

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 27, 2021

8.19pm – Sun Inn at Norwood forced to close

The pub said on social media:

“We have currently no electric or phone line . We will be unable to serve food this evening as all the staff have gone home after a very long four hours waiting patiently for it to come back on . Hopefully we will be up and running tomorrow.”

7.16pm – No water or low water pressure in HG4

We have received an email from a reader saying there is no water in North Stainley because of power problems at a pumping station. Yorkshire Water has said in a message to residents:

“You may have no water or low pressure in HG4. We will restore supplies as soon as possible. Water may return cloudy or discoloured for an hour or two but this will pass.”

Let us know what the latest situation is there and elsewhere as the Harrogate district recovers from Storm Arwen.

5.50pm – Another fallen tree, this time at Felliscliffe

Reader Alan Peel took this photo at lunchtime today of a fallen tree on Tang Road, between Whitewall Lane and Birstwith Hall. Are many roads still affected by the storms? Please keep us informed of the situation across the Harrogate district by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk/

3.45pm – Harrogate district residents urged to look after each other

The body responsible for responding to emergencies in North Yorkshire has urged residents to pull together in the aftermath of Storm Arwen.

Emergency services at local councils have been working together during the high winds to clear roads and keep people safe.

However, thousands across the Northern Powergrid region remain without power as the storm moves on and temperatures plummet.

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum has asked for neighbours to invite those vulnerable without power into their homes or make arrangements for alternative accommodation.

Avoid the seafronts. At least one person has been swept out by the waves and rescued off the North Yorkshire coast today.

Inspector Amy Hunter from North Yorkshire Police, said:

“Due to the high level demand in calls for service there may be a delay when calling the police on 101.

“We ask members of the public not to ring 999 if you can’t get through on 101, please leave the lines free for genuine emergencies.”

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue has attended around 50 incidents. The majority of these incidents included falling trees, power lines and dangerous structures.

Neil Irving, on behalf of the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, said:

“County and district councils and emergency services continue to pull out all the stops to keep highways clear and our residents safe and we are calling on all our residents to help us in this endeavour.

“Travel only if you need to and remain vigilant. Above all please look out for neighbours and friends particularly those who are elderly and frail who may be without power for a prolonged period in very cold weather, especially as nightfall approaches.

“We are calling on friends and neighbours and people without power to consider making arrangements together to move people into warm accommodation until power is restored.”

2.45pm – Homes will be without power today and into tomorrow

Homes across the Harrogate district that have been without power since last night may not get the supply back until tomorrow.

While it is difficult to get a hold of the impact on the district specifically with Northern Powergrid’s outage map down, we have received a number of complaints about the issue.

More than 108,000 properties are still affected. Here is what a spokesperson for the power company said:

“Storm Arwen, which continues to hit the region, has brough windspeeds of up to 100 mph and is the largest storm to impact our network since 2005.

“More than 219,000 homes and businesses have been affected and we have restored power to some 111,000 customers.

“With 108,000 still affected, and as a result of the ongoing situation, many customers will be off supply for the majority of the day and into tomorrow or when it is safe to carry out repairs.”

2pm – Storm Arwen starts to relent

Storm Arwen is beginning to relent after battering the Harrogate district over the last 24 hours.

The Met Office has said that the strongest of the winds have now passed but there are still severe weather warnings in place across the UK.

A yellow warning for wind is still vald until 6pm. However, the storm is now moving southwards.

The worst of the winds may have passed but there is a cold night ahead with a yellow warning for ice in place between 5pm and 11am tomorrow.

Chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale, said:

“Storm Arwen has delivered some dangerously strong winds overnight, with gusts in excess of 90mph recorded and sustained windspeeds of over 60mph.

“The strong winds will move south across the UK through the day, gradually weakening.

“Warnings are in still in force through the day and there has been widespread disruption so check and follow advice from local authorities before you head out.

“There is a chance of snow in some locations, particularly the higher ground in Scotland and Northern England where we have already seen some accumulations.

“Any snow falling at lower levels is likely to be short lived.”

12.55pm – Tree down on Jenny Field Drive

Thanks to reader Jacci Stephenson who sent us this photo of a tree down on Jenny Field Drive in Harrogate today.

We also received this tweet about trees down in Bilton.

Two trees down on Bilton cycle path, one just north of Bilton lane easily avoided , the other just beyond the railway line bridge much harder to get round.

— terribletim (@terribletim6) November 27, 2021

We also understand many homes are still affected by the severe weather. Have things improved in Fewston since we received this tweet?

We have no electricity in Fewston and no mobile phone signal. We’ve phoned National Power Grid from the town centre to determine what is happening and they’re not taking calls and their website is down. We’re truly in the dark!

— steven (@Mincemoosemeat) November 27, 2021

Let us know the latest situation where you are by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

12.45pm – North Powergrid struggling to restore power

Northern Powergrid says Storm Arwen is the largest storm to impact network since 2005.

Parts of Yorkshire and the north east of England have significant damage to power network and although it has managed to restore power to many homes a significant number remain without power.

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s Major Incident Manager, said:

“Our contact centre is very busy and our website is experiencing issues due to the volume of customers using it.  Our teams are doing everything possible to resolve this and we are continuing to provide updates on our social media channels which we encourage customers to share”

Continued storm force winds mean it is currently unsafe for teams to climb and repair any damage caused to overhead power lines by fallen trees and flying debris.

Northern Powergrid warned that customers maybe off supply for the majority of the day and into tomorrow, or when it is safe to carry out restoration and repairs.

11.45am – Cancelled Christmas events across Harrogate district

(Closed) RHS Harlow Carr: Due to weather warnings & high winds, RHS Garden Harlow Carr is closing today (Sat 27 Nov) & this evening’s Glow event is cancelled. If you have booked for the garden or Glow you’ll automatically be refunded within the next 14 days. We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused.

(Closed) Harrogate Theatre: Harrogate Theatre has now confirmed that it has been forced to cancel the whole weekend of scheduled panto performances. Storm Arwen has left the building with a leak.

(Closed) Brimham Rocks: National Trust has closed Brimham Rocks today due to high winds. The site said it is not safe for visitors or staff.

(Closed) Fountains Abbey: National Trust has closed Fountains Abbey near Ripon today due to high winds. The site said it is not safe for visitors or staff.

(Closed) Stockeld Park: The Christmas Tree Shop will be opening from 1pm today when winds are forecast to reduce to safe levels. The Adventure Park remains closed today as the storm through the night has caused some damage and the team are spending the day clearing up the debris and ensuring the site is safe.

Rides in Harrogate: Due to the anticipated high winds, the attractions in #Harrogate (Ferris wheel, carousel and helter-skelter) may not be running this weekend. The situation will be monitored throughout.

11.30am – Train disruption on Harrogate lines

Train commuters have faced lots of disruption this morning due to the strong winds caused by Storm Arwen.

Northern Rail has said that services will either be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised.

On the Harrogate board, the 11.45am to Leeds and 1.05pm to York are cancelled.

11am – Tree falls on moving car in Sharow

A clean up operation has just begun after a tree fell on a moving car with a driver inside in Sharow.

The incident occured this morning on Dishforth Road. We understand that the person inside suffered minor injuries.

We asked both North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for more information but received no reply.

10.30am – Weekend of pantos cancelled at Harrogate Theatre

Harrogate Theatre has now confirmed that it has been forced to cancel the whole weekend of scheduled panto performances.

The theatre is currently undergoing a roof replacement. However, Storm Arwen has left the building with a leak.

It means that the 12pm and 5pm performances both today and tomorrow will not go ahead.

10.15am – Harrogate Theatre cancels panto over leak

Harrogate Theatre has been forced to cancel its performance of Cinderella at 12pm today due to a leak caused by Storm Arwen.

It is unclear at this stage whether the 5pm will be able to go ahead.

https://twitter.com/HGtheatre/status/1464536490273394698

9.50am – Power out in areas across the Harrogate district

Storm Arwen has left some people in the Harrogate district without power this morning.

A Stray Ferret reader in Fewston called Steven has told us they are currently without power and mobile phone signal this morning.

Northern Powergrid has said 112,000 of its customers are currently without power with more than 550 instances of damage on the network.

#StormArwen is continuing to batter our region and causing ongoing damage to our network.

We have restored power to 88,000 homes and businesses. We currently have 112,000 customers without power and we have more than 550 instances of damage on our network. pic.twitter.com/QvPLADIDAg

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 27, 2021

9.15am – An update for the roads across the Harrogate district

Some trees have been cleared from main roads but there is still plenty of disruption across the Harrogate district.

• A tree has fallen onto a car on Dishforth Road in Sharow
• Tang Lane in Swincliffe blocked due to a large fallen tree, pictured above
• Reports of a fallen tree on High Moor Road near North Rigton
• Reports of a fallen tree on Follifoot Road near Pannal Golf Club

Pennypot Lane and Jennyfield Drive are now clear after fallen trees have been cleared

8.30am – Parkrun cancelled due to weather conditions

Organisers of the Parkrun in Harrogate have cancelled the event this morning due to Storm Arwen.

Harrogate Parkrun tweeted a picture of a downed tree and said it was just not safe to go out.

Nobody wants a tree on their head so we are cancelled today.

Sorry folks it’s just not safe for our runners or volunteers to go ahead this morning.

Stay safe, have a wonderful weekend and we’ll see you soon. pic.twitter.com/cR19KzhX4G

— Harrogate parkrun (@Hgateparkrun) November 27, 2021

8.15am – Buses are still running across the district

The Harrogate Bus Company is running its services across the Harrogate district this morning with a couple of exceptions:

• Harrogate Electrics 2A is unable to serve Rawson Street, Elm Road, Alder Road Dene Park stops
• The 24 is also disrupted between Darley and Birstwith

Transdev CEO Alex Hornby tweeted:

“This morning has been challenging. Our teams are doing a tremendous job to get buses moving in the storms and snow (and around many fallen trees!). We are doing our best to update you on our social channels.

“Thanks to everyone for doing their bit – and for your patience today.”

8am – Fallen trees causing issues on the roads

We have seen several reports overnight and this morning of fallen trees causing issues on the roads across the Harrogate district.

• Reports of tree in road on Jennyfield near the junction with Lindrick Way
• Reports of tree down on Penny Pot Lane in Harrogate
• Police incident on Dishforth Road in Sharow, reports of tree down and crash
• Reports of tree in road on Ripon Road south of Wormald Green

Have we missed anything? Get in touch so we can add it to our live blog and let others know.

There are travel warnings and cancelled events as the district braces itself for Storm Arwen.

The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for wind in the North East, where there is danger to life as a result of flying debris expected from 3pm until 2am tomorrow.

Here in the Harrogate district the area is covered by a yellow warning for both wind and snow from 5pm today until tomorrow around 10am.

3.30pm – Brimham Rocks closed tomorrow

The National Trust has announced Brimham Rocks will be closed to visitors tomorrow due to the storm.

2.53pm – Rail passengers encouraged to postpone journeys

2.35pm – Only travel if necessary, says county council

North Yorkshire County Council has urged drivers only to travel if necessary as Storm Arwen approaches.

The storm is expected to bring strong winds and the possibility of sleet turning into snow on higher ground.

Cllr Don Mackenzie, executive member for access at the county council, said:

“All our NY Highways teams are in place and will be able to respond to any conditions that arise over the weekend. In addition, the 100 farming contractors that support our winter highways operation are primed to help if required, particularly if the strong winds exacerbate any impact of snow through drifting.

“We would ask anyone planning to travel to consider whether their journey is absolutely necessary. If they do need to travel, they should be alert to the conditions, drive accordingly and leave extra time for their journey.

“High winds can affect vehicle handling, so drivers need to adjust their driving by slowing down and being careful when passing high-sided vehicles on exposed roads. They should also give extra space to cyclists and motorcyclists when overtaking. Drivers should make sure their vehicles are prepared for winter.”

1.50pm – Harrogate Christmas rides may not be running

The Christmas attractions in Harrogate may not be running this weekend due to forecasted heavy winds.

Harrogate Borough Council said today that the ferris wheel, carousel and helter-skelter could be put on hold while Storm Arwen moves through the area.

A spokesperson added that the situation will be monitored over the next couple of days.

The Helter Skelter next to the war memorial in Harrogate town centre.

1.30pm – Emergency services issue safety advice

North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue have issued safety advice for residents in light of Storm Arwen.

Both have warned people to be careful if residents are out and about and to secure anything in the garden.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said:

• Don’t lose your trampoline down the street! We often get calls in relation to unsecured trampolines ending up in neighbour’s gardens or on nearby streets so please keep yours fastened down.
• Put garden furniture in storage or ensure it is secured so it doesn’t blow away or get damaged.
• Take care if you’re driving or walking anywhere as high winds could mean falling trees and debris.
• If you’re by the coast don’t be tempted to get close to sea walls and remember if you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you’re at the coast or the fire service if you’re inland.

North Yorkshire Police added:

• When you’re driving or walking, please be vigilant for falling debris.
• Check before you travel for any road closures or updates.
• If you’re by the coast, don’t be tempted to get close to sea walls.
• If you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard or the fire service if you are inland.
• If you see a fallen tree or any other debris which is causing a road obstruction, here’s what to do:
  • If the obstruction poses an immediate danger on a busy road then call us on 999
  • If the obstruction does not pose an immediate danger, call the council and ask for the highways department
  • Please don’t put yourself in danger by trying to remove road debris on a busy road

12.45pm – Yellow warning for Harrogate district

A yellow weather warning for wind remains in place for tomorrow across the Harrogate district.

Storm Arwen is also predicted to bring cold temperatures with the possibility of sleet and snow over some lower ground although it is likely to be short-lived.

The Met Office has issued the following advice as to what to expect with a yellow warning:

• Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life
• Probably damage to trees, temporary structures and buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected
• Some roads and bridges likely to close
• There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

12.40pm – Mother Shipton’s set to close

Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough has also decided to close due to the forecasted high winds and snow tomorrow.

The attraction Tweeted today to say it is set in ancient woodland so is unable to open under the expected weather conditions.

A spokesperson said:

“We have had to make the difficult decision to close on Saturday 27th November 2021 due to amber weather warnings for wind.

“The attraction is set in ancient woodland and we cannot safely open during these conditions. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

12pm – Fountains Abbey closes estate to visitors

The National Trust has announced that the Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal estate will be closed to visitors tomorrow.

It means that the music and lights event planned for between 2pm and 5pm, when the abbey would have been aglow in coloured lights with festive music playing, will not go ahead.

The team at Fountains Abbey has said it hopes to be able to reopen again on Sunday when the storm has passed.

A spokesperson for the National Trust said:

“Storm Arwen is making a gale force visit to Fountains tomorrow and to keep everyone safe the estate will be closed on Saturday.

“This includes Studley deer park as well as the abbey, water garden, visitor centre and car parks.

“We’re so sorry to disappoint anyone who was planning a visit and hope you’ll be able to come again another day.

“Fingers crossed we’ll be open as usual on Sunday but please do check our website and social media channels before you set off for the most up-to-date information.”