Wildlands, several schools and De Weiert shopping centre in Emmen have been without power since shortly before 11 a.m. on Wednesday. There are also reports that some people may be stuck in a lift.
Translation by Traci White
RTV Drenthe reports that large sections of Emmen and Erm in Drenthe are currently facing a widespread power outage due to a problem with a transformer in the area.
A spokesperson for grid operated Enexis says that smoke has been spotted coming from the transformer in question, and the company can only start working to fix it once the smoke has dissipated.
The company currently predicts that the outage will last until at least 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Enexis says that 6,588 customers are believed to be without power at the moment. Many shops, including several butchers, in the city centre of Emmen are currently closed due to the lack of power, and drivers cannot leave parking garages in the area.
Wildlands, Esdal College, Carmel College, Hondsrug College, De Weiert shopping centre are all currently without power, and Hondsrug has announced that their students have been sent home for the day.
Photo source: Enexis/Twitter