The Sebenza Substation’s 275kV breaker tripped as a result of veld fires around Gillooly’s Farm near the N3 Highway, over the weekend.
This interrupted power supply across seven substations in parts of the City, Isaac Mangena, Spokesperson of City Power said this afternoon.
“When there is a big fire producing thick smoke and hot gases close to a high voltage power line, it can create a path for electricity to jump through the air, which is called a ‘flashover.’ This increases the risk of damage to the network infrastructure” he said.
He explained further that, although transmission cables are insulated and separated, the gaseous smoke creates a conductive path, causing those lines to touch.
Between high voltage lines and the ground, there is a magnetic zone, which allows the lines to trip in an event where there is movement, smoke and vegetation.
City Power has asked residents in a heartfelt letter, to not contribute towards starting fires close to power lines.
“While the actual fire could damage our infrastructure, the dense smoke underneath the transmission lines often creates conditions for the network to trip leading to widespread outages” said Mangena.
In an event of a veld fire near power lines, call the City Power hotline.
To minimize the risk of veld fires, the following is recommended:
– Avoid burning refuse or vegetation near power lines.
– Dispose of cigarette butts and other flammable materials responsibly.
– Clear dry vegetation and debris from around your property to create a firebreak.
– Follow local fire safety regulations and guidelines when conducting controlled burns or outdoor activities.
Picture: iStock