Why Do NEPA Take Light in Nigeria When Rain is Falling?
If you live in Nigeria, you must have experienced it countless times – the moment heavy rain starts falling, NEPA (or PHCN, now known as DISCOs) immediately takes light. This has become such a common occurrence that it has turned into a joke among Nigerians. But have you ever wondered why this happens?
In this article, we’ll break down the real reasons behind why NEPA takes light during rainfall, how it affects electricity supply, and what can be done about it.
The Real Reasons Why NEPA Takes Light When It Rains
1.
Safety Precautions
One of the main reasons NEPA cuts electricity during rainfall is to prevent electrical accidents. Rain can cause water to enter exposed cables, transformers, or electric poles, which increases the risk of electric shocks, electrocution, and fire outbreaks. By switching off the power, they reduce the chances of lives and properties being lost.
2.
Poor Power Infrastructure
Nigeria’s power infrastructure is old and poorly maintained in many areas. Many electric poles, wires, and transformers are vulnerable to short circuits when it rains. To avoid damage, the power companies switch off the power until the rain stops.
3.
Preventing System Overload
When rain falls, there is often an increase in electricity demand as people turn on more appliances (water heaters, fans, lights due to dark skies). NEPA sometimes cuts the light to avoid overload and damage to the grid.
4.
Fallen Electric Poles and Cables
Strong winds during rain can cause electric poles to fall or cables to snap. Cutting off electricity prevents these loose wires from becoming live and causing harm to people or animals.
5.
Technical Faults
Heavy rainfall can cause transformer explosions or faults in power stations. When this happens, the power distribution companies take light until engineers fix the problem.
How This Affects Nigerians
Frequent power outages during rain disrupt businesses, home activities, and daily life. It also forces people to spend more on fuel for generators, power banks, and other alternative energy sources.
Possible Solutions
- Upgrading Power Infrastructure: Replacing weak electric poles and old transformers will reduce rain-related faults.
- Underground Cabling: Countries with reliable power supply often bury their cables underground to prevent weather interference.
- Faster Response Time: Power distribution companies should improve their maintenance teams to restore light faster after rain.
- Public Awareness: Educating the public on how to stay safe during rain-related outages will help reduce accidents.
Conclusion
While it can be frustrating when NEPA takes light during rainfall, it is mostly done for safety and protection of equipment. Until Nigeria’s power infrastructure is upgraded, we will continue to experience this pattern.
Why Do NEPA Take Light in Nigeria When Rain is Falling?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why does NEPA always take light when rain is about to start?
They take light as a precautionary measure to prevent electrocution and protect the grid from damage.
2. Does rain actually affect electricity?
Yes, rainwater can cause short circuits, transformer explosions, and even make electric poles fall.
3. Can NEPA stop taking light during rain?
Yes, but it would require massive investment in power infrastructure to make it rain-resistant.
4. Is it safe to touch electric poles when it rains?
No! Avoid touching electric poles, wires, or wet electrical equipment during rainfall to prevent electrocution.
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How to Stay Safe When NEPA Takes Light During Rain in Nigeria
In Nigeria, power outages during rainfall are not just common — they are almost expected. But while we often joke about NEPA taking light the moment rain starts falling, there are serious safety risks we must consider.
Why Safety Matters During Rain-Related Power Outages
When NEPA switches off electricity during rainfall, it’s often to prevent electrical accidents. However, when power eventually comes back, there could be voltage fluctuations, electric surges, or even exposed live wires in flooded areas. These can be dangerous if not handled carefully.
Why Do NEPA Take Light in Nigeria When Rain is Falling?
Safety Tips When NEPA Takes Light During Rain
1.
Avoid Touching Electrical Poles and Cables
Rainwater conducts electricity, and if there’s a fallen cable nearby, it can be deadly. Stay away from electric poles, wires, and transformers during rainfall.
2.
Unplug Appliances
Before the light goes off or as soon as it does, unplug sensitive appliances like TVs, fridges, and sound systems to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored.
3.
Use Surge Protectors
Invest in a good surge protector or stabilizer for your home electronics. This will protect your devices from damage when power is restored after rain.
4.
Stay Indoors if Possible
During heavy rain, stay indoors and avoid flooded streets. Water mixed with live wires can be very dangerous.
5.
Report Fallen Wires
If you see fallen electric cables, report them to your local power distribution company (DISCO) immediately.
What to Do When Power is Restored
- Switch on appliances one at a time to avoid sudden overload.
- Check your electrical sockets and wiring for any signs of burning smell or sparks.
- Allow your generator to cool off before switching to NEPA light to prevent back-feed accidents.
While NEPA taking light during rain can be frustrating, your safety should always come first. Follow these tips to protect yourself, your family, and your home from potential electrical hazards.
Why Do NEPA Take Light in Nigeria When Rain is Falling?
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