Another Blow For Residents In Storm-Hit Dandenong Ranges With Lights Out Until July 10

Energy provider AusNet have warned the damage to power lines from the violent winds and storms which hit last week is so bad that networks may need to be re-built from scratch.

Steve Brown from AusNet explained they are working around the clock with large sections of the grid critically damaged.

"So, the community is really rallying to support each other. Emergency Services are involved, and local organisations are supporting as well. Some people have gone to stay with family and friends. We really want everyone to be aware that it looks like it’s going to be a few more weeks and they need to plan for that accordingly"

- Steve Brown

3000 customers in Ferny Creek, Kalorama, Mount Dandenong, Olinda, Sassafras, Sherbrooke, The Basin, Tremont and Upwey have been told they won't get the power back on until July 10.

Meantime, Emergency Services Minister David Littleproud told Nine that Australian Defence Force have sent five planners to the Dandenongs and Tralagon to help assess the damage and are only waiting on the state governments go-ahead and support clean up endeavours.

"Those five ADF staff will be on the ground and they'll be able to help in that assessment and hopefully be able to continue to feed in and encourage the use and the skills and the equipment of the ADF to expedite those issues around energy"

- MP David Littleproud

An urgent warning was also issued by Yarra Valley Water to residents in Melbourne’s outer east to “not drink tap water”.

 Thousands in Dandenongs to remain in the dark for weeks

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