Severe storms have disrupted electricity supply across parts of the Eastern Cape, prompting Eskom to accelerate restoration efforts as thousands of households remain affected.
Eskom has confirmed major progress in restoring electricity to parts of the Eastern Cape after severe storms disrupted supply over the past 48 hours.
More than 190,000 customers were initially affected across towns including Mthatha, Mqanduli, Elliotdale, Idutywa, Willowvale, Engcobo, Cala, Komani and parts of Butterworth. As of midnight on Friday, 6 February 2026, that number had dropped to 76,000.
Restoration teams resumed operations this morning.
Official Response
Eskom said teams would continue repairs throughout the weekend, although weather may cause delays.
“We continue to urge the remaining customers to be patient and to continue treating all electricity appliances as live during this period,” the utility said.
A Level 4 severe thunderstorm warning remains active for several local municipalities until at least Monday, 9 February.
Community Impact
The following municipalities are currently under severe weather warning:
- Dr AB Xuma
- Ingquza Hill
- Intsika Yethu
- King Sabata Dalindyebo
- Winnie Madikizela-Mandela
- Mbashe
- Mhlontlo
- Ntabankulu
- Nyandeni
- Port St Johns
- Sakhisizwe
- Umzimvubu
These conditions may cause flooding, damage to property, and transport disruptions.
What Happens Next
Customers still without supply should:
- Treat all appliances as live
- Report faults via WhatsApp to 08600 37566
- Use 12037566# or the MyEskom App
- Chat via Alfred Chatbot
- Email: EasternCape@eskom.co.za
Eskom has not given an exact timeline for full restoration. Weather alerts are expected to continue into next week.
