Eskom, South Africa’s national power utility, has announced a planned 9-hour power outage in Doornkop, Soweto, Gauteng, scheduled for Tuesday, 4 March 2025, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The power utility has stated that this 9-hour power outage is necessary to perform essential maintenance on the distribution power lines. These upgrades are crucial to improving the reliability and efficiency of electricity supply in the area.
The planned maintenance is part of Eskom’s broader strategy to ensure a stable electricity supply across Gauteng. However, residents and businesses in Doornkop must prepare for the temporary inconvenience caused by the 9-hour power outage.
Why Eskom is Conducting Maintenance
Eskom regularly schedules planned maintenance to ensure the power infrastructure remains in good condition, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and blackouts.
According to Eskom, the 9-hour power outage in Soweto will help to:
- Prevent unplanned power outages caused by faulty equipment.
- Ensure the safety of power infrastructure.
- Improve the efficiency and reliability of electricity supply.
- Extend the lifespan of power lines and substations.
While power interruptions can be frustrating, planned maintenance is necessary to avoid longer electricity failures in the future.
Safety Precautions During the 9-Hour Power Outage
Eskom has urged all residents in Doornkop to treat all electrical appliances as live at all times during the 9-hour power outage. This means:
- Switching off and unplugging non-essential electrical appliances.
- Keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain temperatures.
- Using alternative light sources such as candles or battery-powered lamps.
- Ensuring security systems have backup power to remain functional.
Eskom apologised for the inconvenience and said that if unforeseen circumstances arise, the 9-hour power outage may not go ahead as scheduled.
How the 9-Hour Power Outage Will Affect Doornkop Residents
The 9-hour power outage will significantly impact households, businesses, and daily activities in Doornkop, Soweto. Residents are advised to prepare in advance for possible disruptions.
Household Activities
Without electricity, daily household activities will be affected. These include:
- Cooking: Since stoves, microwaves, and kettles will not work, residents should prepare meals in advance.
- Refrigeration: Perishable foods in refrigerators and freezers may spoil if doors are frequently opened.
- Lighting: Those without alternative light sources may face difficulties in the evening if the 9-hour power outage extends.
Work and Business Operations
Small businesses, shops, and work-from-home professionals should plan for disruptions by:
- Adjusting working hours to avoid productivity loss.
- Using alternative power sources like generators where possible.
- Informing customers in advance about service disruptions.
Communication and Connectivity
Power outages may impact cell phone networks and internet services. To stay connected:
- Charge mobile devices and power banks before the 9-hour power outage begins.
- Download any important documents or files beforehand.
- Keep a radio or battery-powered device for emergency updates.
Security and Safety
Security is a concern during power outages, as CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and electric fences may stop working. Residents are advised to:
- Ensure security systems have battery backups.
- Use manual locks and physical barriers where possible.
- Be extra vigilant during the 9-hour power outage.
Related: What to Do If Load Shedding Damages Your Appliances: Compensation & Claims
Weather Conditions on 4 March 2025
According to weather forecasts, Johannesburg and Soweto are expected to experience:
- Variable cloudiness with a chance of thundershowers in the morning.
- A couple of showers and a thunderstorm in the afternoon.
- High temperature of 25°C and a low of 15°C.
The weather may impact residents relying on solar power backup. Make sure to charge devices and store extra power if possible.
Eskom’s Commitment to Improving Power Supply
Eskom has acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the 9-hour power outage but assures residents that this work is necessary to maintain a stable and reliable power supply.
The company also stated that should any unforeseen circumstances occur, the 9-hour power outage may be postponed.
Residents are advised to stay updated by checking Eskom’s official channels:
- Eskom Twitter: @Eskom_SA
- Eskom Facebook: Eskom South Africa
- Eskom Website: www.eskom.co.za
Power Outages to Affect Cape Town Residents Too
While Soweto residents will be without electricity on 4 March, the City of Cape Town has also announced power outages for maintenance work in Muizenberg.
Cape Town residents will experience scheduled power cuts on:
- 8 March 2025 (18:00 – 08:00)
- 15 March 2025 (18:00 – 08:00)
- 5 April 2025 (18:00 – 08:00)
These planned outages are part of Cape Town’s strategy to maintain the electricity network in good working condition.
How to Prepare for the 9-Hour Power Outage
To minimize inconvenience, Doornkop residents should follow these steps:
- Charge your phones, laptops, and power banks before the 9-hour power outage starts.
- Stock up on candles, torches, and battery-powered lights.
- Prepare meals in advance that do not require refrigeration or cooking.
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed to maintain temperatures.
- Switch off electrical appliances to prevent damage when power is restored.
- Ensure security systems have battery backups to maintain protection.
The 9-hour power outage in Doornkop, Soweto, on 4 March 2025 may cause temporary inconvenience, but it is a necessary step to ensure long-term improvements in electricity supply.
Residents and businesses are urged to take precautions and prepare ahead of time. Staying informed through Eskom’s official channels will help ensure a smooth transition during the maintenance period.
For real-time updates, visit Eskom’s website or follow their social media accounts.
