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How overgrown trees cause blackouts and what Kenya Power wants you to do about it
10th August, 2026 03:16 PM
Power blackouts during heavy rains and windy weather are a familiar frustration for many Kenyans, but Kenya Power has explained why these sudden interruptions keep happening.
In a public notice on August 10, 2026, the electricity provider highlighted that overgrown trees and roadside foliage are among the primary triggers for unexpected power cuts across the country.
How wind and wet branches trigger unexpected blackouts
When bad weather strikes, strong gusts and heavy rain turn ordinary branches near high-voltage steel pylons and neighbourhood poles into immediate hazards.
“Strong winds push wet branches onto power lines, and often, that’s how outages begin,” Kenya Power stated on X.
When rain-soaked leaves and branches touch live overhead cables, they create an electrical bridge that causes short circuits. These short circuits automatically trip transformers and distribution lines to prevent further damage.
During severe storms, heavy winds can also snap large tree limbs, snapping wires straight off the poles and cutting off electricity to entire estates.
How to report and clear dangerous branches safely
To keep the lights on before severe weather hits, Kenya Power is urging customers to report dangerous foliage near power lines instead of attempting to cut down branches on their own.
“Spotted a risk? Here’s your quick fix: Call 97771 to report the location,” the utility provider shared.
How the problem gets fixed depends on the type of power line nearby. High-voltage cables carry heavy electrical loads, so company teams handle those jobs completely.
“We handle high-voltage line trimming,” Kenya Power noted, adding that maintenance crews will agree on a suitable date with property owners to carry out the work safely.
For lower-voltage lines that run straight to individual houses, Kenya Power sends crews to secure the line before residents do any trimming.
“We secure low-voltage lines within 7 days so you can trim the trees safely,” the company explained.
Equipped in blue overalls and safety helmets, ground teams routinely clear fallen trunks and overgrown branches along estate roads to keep power flowing. Customers can also log reports through the online portal at chatbot.kplc.co.ke.
“Let’s tackle the problem before the next storm hits!” Kenya Power urged.
