Next week, Joburg residents will experience 8-hour power outages as City Power carries out essential maintenance on the city’s electricity network. These outages are part of ongoing efforts to improve the electrical infrastructure, but they will still disrupt daily life. Here’s what you need to know about the planned outages and how to prepare for them.

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Why Are These 8-Hour Power Outages Happening?

City Power has scheduled these 8-hour power outages to improve the city’s electricity supply. According to City Power, these interruptions are necessary to upgrade equipment, install new infrastructure, and conduct repairs. The planned outages will help prevent future problems and provide a more reliable power supply for Johannesburg.

Lindiwe Mthembu, a City Power spokesperson, explained, “These outages are vital for maintaining a reliable power grid in Johannesburg. Although we understand the inconvenience, these upgrades will lead to fewer disruptions in the long run.”

What to Expect During the 8-Hour Power Outages

From 18 to 21 August 2025, several Joburg areas will face scheduled 8-hour power outages. The outages will run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, affecting both residents and businesses in the affected areas.

Here’s a breakdown of the Joburg area power outage warning:

Monday, 18 August:

CBD & Doornfontein (Region F): 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Wednesday, 20 August:

Randview Avenue & Ferndale (Region B): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Malanshof & Strydom Park (Region B): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Thursday, 21 August:

Midrand (Region A): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

City Power has urged residents to plan ahead for these outages, as they will affect many essential services in both residential and commercial areas.

How to Prepare for the 8-Hour Power Outages

With the 8-hour power outages coming up in Joburg, it’s important to take steps to minimise disruption. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Charge Your Devices: Fully charge your phones, laptops, and any other essential devices before the power goes out. If you can, invest in portable chargers to stay powered up during the day.
Stock Up on Essentials: If you work from home or run a business, make sure you have enough water, snacks, and other necessities to get through the day. You may also want to consider backup power options, such as a generator or a solar-powered charger.
Unplug Sensitive Electronics: To protect your devices from power surges when the power returns, unplug sensitive electronics like your computer, television, and kitchen appliances.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on City Power’s official website and social media pages for updates on the outages. They will provide real-time information and any changes to the schedule.

Expert Insights on the 8-Hour Power Outages

City Power’s Director of Operations, Lindiwe Mthembu, commented, “These outages are an essential part of our strategy to modernise Johannesburg’s power infrastructure. We recognise the inconvenience they cause, but the improvements will ensure a more stable and reliable power supply for all residents.”

City Power’s ongoing efforts aim to reduce power disruptions by upgrading ageing infrastructure and enhancing capacity. While these outages might be inconvenient now, they will help prevent more frequent interruptions in the future.

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Get Ready for the 8-Hour Power Outages

Johannesburg residents will face 8-hour power outages from 18 to 21 August 2025. These outages are necessary for maintaining the electrical grid and will help ensure a more reliable power supply moving forward.

To minimise the impact, charge your devices, stock up on essentials, and stay updated by checking City Power’s official website. By preparing ahead of time, you can make it through the outages with less disruption.