How to Report Power Outage and Get Updates Fast
The fridge was humming, the aircon was cool, and the lights were on. Then, with one sharp click, it all shut off. Total blackout. No lights, no charging, no appliances. Suddenly, everything in the house stops.
When that happens, the first thought is simple—how long until the power’s back? That’s why it helps to know who to call and where to check for updates.
This guide shows you easy ways to report power outage, follow what’s happening, and get through the blackout without too much stress. We will also offer a few simple tips to make the next one easier to handle. Read on!
How to Report Power Failure?
Before calling it in, take a quick look outside. Check if the streetlights are out or if your neighbors’ houses are dark too. This will tell you if it’s just your home or the whole area.
Once you know, it’s time to report. Who you call depends on your electricity provider. In most cases, there are three main places to contact:
1. Eskom Report Power Outage
If your home gets electricity straight from Eskom, here's how to report a power outage:
Chatbot: Use Eskom's Alfred chatbot to report your faults online.
MyEskom App: Download the app to report outages, check your balance, or send meter readings. It’s available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Download the MyEskom App to report outages, check account balances, or submit meter readings. Android MyEskom App on Google store and iOS version on Apple store.
Eskom Website: Report the fault directly through the Eskom CS Online portal.
Phone Call: Call 0860037566 to report outages. Have your account number, address, contact info, pole number, and meter number ready.
2. Report Power Outage to City Power (Johannesburg)
If you live in Johannesburg, City Power is responsible for the electricity supply. Here's how to report a power outage in this area:
Chatbot: Use City Power's chatbot Joulene, available 24/7.
Online Platform: Report faults via the City Power mobile portal.
Phone Call: Dial the toll-free number 0800003156 (available daily 06:00–18:00).
Social Media: Report through official social channels:
X (Twitter): @CityPowerJHB
Facebook: @CityPowerJohannesburg
3. Report Power Outage to eThekwini Electricity (Durban)
If you're in Durban/eThekwini, here's how to report to eThekwini Electricity:
Phone Call: Call 0803111111 for reporting and follow-ups (24/7).
WhatsApp: For quick outage reporting, use WhatsApp: 0767912449 (24/7).
Email: Send details (name, contact number, full street address, and fault description) to: electrical.faults@durban.gov.za
Website: Log a fault via the Durban official site (24/7).
How Can You Get Updates?
Now that you know how to report a power outage, the next thing on your mind is usually: When will the lights come back on?
Here are a few simple ways to check repair progress and stay up to date with the latest news:
Official Websites: Eskom's CS Online, City Power's citypower.mobi, and eThekwini's official page all provide updates on fault progress and estimated restoration times.
Mobile App: With the MyEskom App, you can check outage status and repair progress anytime.
Social Media Platforms: City Power and Eskom frequently post real-time outage and repair updates on X (Twitter) and Facebook.
City Power:
X (Twitter): @CityPowerJHB
Facebook: @CityPowerJohannesburg
Eskom:
X (Twitter): @Eskom_SA
Facebook: @Eskom SouthAfrica
Phone Call: For eThekwini Electricity, you can follow up by calling 080 311 1111 (available 24/7).
Email: You may also send an email to electrical.faults@durban.gov.za to receive eThekwini Electricity's updates and further instructions.
What Causes Power Failure?
Want to figure out what might be causing the power outage in your area? In South Africa, outages are often linked to one or more of the following factors:
Severe Weather
Extreme conditions such as thunderstorms, strong winds, or heavy rain can damage power lines, transformers, and other infrastructure, leading to interruptions in supply.
Physical Damage
Accidental digging near underground cables, vehicle collisions with poles, or external construction activities can cause serious damage and disrupt power.
Animal Interference
Small animals like monkeys or birds may accidentally touch or damage power lines or substations, which can trigger faults and unexpected outages at home.
High Electricity Demand
During peak usage times, the grid may become overloaded. In some cases, utilities implement rotational load shedding to balance supply and demand.
Equipment Failure
Aging circuits, worn-out infrastructure, or overloaded lines can all result in sudden equipment failures and unplanned outages.
What to Do During a Power Failure?
A power outage can cause all sorts of hassles. Food in the fridge may start to spoil, your home will be dark without lights, and sudden surges could damage your devices.
To stay safe and cut down on risks, here are some simple tips to follow when the power goes out:
Choose Lighting Carefully
If you need light, use a flashlight, your phone's torch, or battery-powered lamps. Avoid using candles, especially if there are children, elderly family members, or pets at home—knocked-over candles can easily start a fire.
Protect the Fridge
Keep your fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible to prevent cold air from escaping. A closed fridge can keep food fresh for about 4 hours, while a freezer can last up to 48 hours.
Unplug Devices
When power returns, sudden voltage changes can damage electronics. To avoid this, unplug appliances, especially sensitive ones like TVs, computers, and phones.
Leave One Light On
Make it a household rule to leave one lamp on during an outage. This simple habit provides a clear, visual signal for everyone. There's no more guessing or fumbling in the dark; the moment light fills the room, your whole family knows the power has been safely restored.
Use Generators Safely
If you rely on a generator, make sure it’s set up the right way and has enough power for the appliances you plan to use. Never overload it, and keep it in a safe, ventilated spot. Having a backup generator to power home is a smart way to stay prepared during long outages.
How to Prepare for a Power Outage?
Facing a power outage without being ready can be stressful. To avoid issues like devices running out of battery, a dark home, spoiled food, or no air conditioning, it helps to prepare ahead of time:
1. Stock emergency supplies
Keep charged batteries, battery-powered lamps, or rechargeable fans at home. Store bottled water and non-perishable food to ensure energy and hydration during outages.
2. Maintain a First Aid and Medication Supply
Keep a stocked first aid kit and ensure you have enough prescription medications to last through an extended outage. Pharmacies may be closed or unable to process refills during emergencies.
3. Prepare key information
Write down and organize useful details—your address, contact info, street name, pole number, meter number, and the utility company responsible for your area. This helps you report and track outages quickly.
4. Set up backup power
If your area often has power cuts, having a portable power station is a smart way to keep your home running smoothly. They’re safer, quieter, and perfect for keeping key devices and appliances on during an outage.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station is a great choice. With up to 4000W output, it can easily power air conditioners, water pumps, fridges, and microwaves. Add expansion, and its capacity grows to 36kWh, enough to run an average home (12–24kWh daily use) for 2–4 days.
For bigger needs, you can connect extra batteries and build one of the best home backup systems, reaching up to 48kWh capacity.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Conclusion
A sudden blackout can feel stressful, but a little prep makes it easier. The basics are simple—report power outage fast, check updates from official channels, and keep your essentials safe while you wait for the power to return.
Staying calm and knowing what’s happening helps cut down the hassle at home. Planning ahead matters too, and that’s where backup power comes in. EcoFlow’s best portable power stations are a solid choice to keep your lights, fridge, and devices running when everything else goes dark.
FAQs
What information should I have ready when reporting an outage?
When you call in a power cut, having the right details ready makes things quicker and easier. Keep your electricity account number, full home address, and a phone number where they can reach you.
Some providers may also ask for the pole number near your house and your meter number.
It also helps to say when the power went out and if it’s only your home or the whole street. If you notice anything odd, like sparks, smoke, or strange noises, mention that too, as it can help the team fix the problem faster.
How long does restoration usually take after I report an outage?
The time depends on what caused the outage and how bad it is. Small faults are often fixed in a few hours. But if it’s bad weather, damaged equipment, or a bigger grid issue, it can take much longer.
Eskom, City Power, and eThekwini usually share repair updates and estimated times on their websites or social media. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on those for the latest news.
Can I report a power outage via WhatsApp in South Africa?
Yes, in some places you can report a power cut on WhatsApp, which makes it much easier.
In Durban and the eThekwini area, the official WhatsApp number is 076 791 2449, and it’s open all day, every day. Just send your name, phone number, full street address, and a short message about the problem. The team will record your outage and get back to you.