Cade Lucas
The State Emergency Service Unit Controller for Wyndham is urging residents to remain patient as crews deal with the aftermath of thunderstorms that swept through the area on Tuesday afternoon.
Thousands of homes lost power, traffic lights went out and public transport services were delayed when the storms began moving across Wyndham at about 3pm on Tuesday February 13.
Laurie Russell said the impact of the afternoon storms was affecting the SES response too.
“There is some congestion on the emergency services telecommunications system,” he said.
“There’s a big wait on the system because everyone’s busy.”
Mr Russell said traffic delays caused by the storms meant he didn’t have as many members to call on as he would like.
“Most of them are caught up in traffic jams.”
The congestion isn’t just confined to the roads with train commuters on the Werribee line advised to seek alternative transport home.
While power has returned to many homes in Werribee, areas further west such as Manor Lakes and Little River could be without power until 11pm tonight.
Laurie Russell said the main focus of his crews late on Tuesday afternoon was removing large trees that had fallen across across a road in in Werribee South.
“The pine trees in Werribee South are pretty big trees. They’re blocking Beach Road.”
Mr Russell said removing them was a priority in case other emergency services were called out to the area.
He said SES crews were doing their best and that while there might be a wait, those who needed help would receive it.
“Just be patient. We know that people want help, but we prioritise what we’re doing.”
www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/
