Shaanxi power crews step up flood response

After the Shaanxi Meteorological Bureau issued a warning about a new round of heavy rain on Aug 18, State Grid Shaanxi Electric Power assigned flood-response duties throughout its operations and sent Chinese Communist Party member service teams to neighborhoods, industrial sites and mountain communities. Their job was to spot problems early, help customers and keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses.

The forecast called for brief, intense downpours, thunderstorms and strong winds. Much of the rain was expected in areas hit by the previous storm, increasing the danger of flooding and other damage. Parts of northernmost and southernmost Shaanxi could also see moderate rain on Aug 21 and 22.

State Grid Shaanxi Electric Power worked closely with meteorological and water authorities to monitor rainfall and flood conditions in real time. It also stepped up inspections and maintenance of transmission lines, substations and distribution equipment while ensuring reliable electricity for residents and essential services. The focus was on identifying and addressing risks before problems occurred.

Prolonged wet weather raised concerns about moisture entering electrical equipment and weakening its insulation. In Gaoling district, Xi'an, the CPC member service team from the local power company inspected residential complexes, including Jindi Duhui Zhiguang and Jingwei Shangcheng.

Following flood-season maintenance standards, workers from the team checked distribution rooms, outdoor power lines and hallway meter boxes. They examined ventilation and moisture control, barriers to keep small animals out and fire safety equipment. They also looked for water leaks, overheating electrical terminals and faulty switches, and cleared nearby debris. During the inspections, team members also advised residents on electrical safety in wet weather, showed them how to request repairs online and answered their questions.

Heat and humidity following the rain also drove up electricity demand from businesses. In Baihe county, Ankang, workers visited factories, mining facilities and eldercare centers to check for hazards.

"It's been raining, and it's hot and muggy. Our production lines have been running nonstop, so I was worried the wiring might get damp or overheat," said Xu Xinfeng, workshop manager at a plush toy factory operated by Shaanxi Zhongfanglian Knitting.

Technicians tested electrical cabinets and transformers with specialized instruments, checking for moisture, overheating connections and other problems.

They also helped the factory adjust its electricity use to take advantage of off-peak hours while meeting production needs. To ensure prompt responses to future requests for additional power capacity or maintenance, the team provided cards with contact details for designated service staff and created records of the company's electricity needs. 

In Luonan county, Shangluo, the walnut harvest had brought more farmers into mountainous areas. This presented two challenges for the local power company: protecting power infrastructure from flood-related geological hazards and ensuring electrical safety during the busy harvest season.

Following the rain, workers conducted special inspections in mountainous areas, checking utility poles and towers, landslide-prone slopes and power lines near rivers. They looked for erosion around tower foundations and signs of slope collapse and cleared trees and branches that threatened power lines to help keep the mountain grid operating safely and reliably. Beyond the inspections, they visited farms to share electrical safety advice with local residents.

Shaanxi remains in its peak flood season, with weather conditions still unpredictable. State Grid Shaanxi Electric Power will continue working with other agencies, conducting routine equipment inspections and hazard checks, and ensuring reliable electricity for essential public services. These efforts aim to maintain a safe, stable power supply for residents across the province.