A vehicle accident has damaged a high-voltage power pole in Tongatapu, forcing Tonga Power Limited (TPL) to schedule an emergency electricity outage affecting parts of Pea and Haʻateiho today.
TPL said electricity would be temporarily disconnected between 1pm and 3pm on Saturday, September 12, while crews carry out emergency repairs to the damaged high-voltage pole.
Photos shared by the company show the vehicle overturned on its roof, with all four wheels facing upwards and extensive visible damage, particularly to its front section.
Debris also appears to be scattered around the wreckage. Details surrounding the crash remain unclear, including how the vehicle left the road, how many people were inside and whether anyone was injured.
There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Customers in the affected areas have been advised to prepare for the two-hour interruption by charging mobile phones, power banks and other essential devices beforehand.
TPL also urged households to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed during the outage and unplug sensitive electrical appliances.
People who depend on electricity for essential needs have been advised to make alternative arrangements before the shutdown begins.
The company also warned members of the public to stay clear of the repair site, where crews may be operating heavy equipment and working around live power lines.
TPL apologised for the disruption and said the temporary shutdown was necessary to allow the damaged infrastructure to be repaired safely.
The latest incident follows other recent vehicle crashes involving electricity poles in Tongatapu, which have disrupted power supplies and required emergency repair work.
Customers seeking further information can contact Tonga Power Limited on 944.
