Number without power increases as weather warnings remain in place
A spokesperson for Energy Networks Association (ENA) has given the latest figures for the numbers of people in Great Britain who do not currently have power.
The ENA - which represents the energy networks in the UK and Ireland and the members of which operate the national grid - said the main affected areas are the south and southwest of England, and Wales.
In a statement released shortly before 10pm tonight, the ENA said: "Engineers have reconnected 80% of customers affected by Storm Darragh on Saturday and 259,000 customers are without power as of 8pm this evening."
Earlier, (see 18.10 post), it said 177,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales were without power.
The ENA added tonight: "In some of the worst affected areas it is unsafe to deploy engineers due to strong, destructive winds forecast to continue overnight and into tomorrow.
"Energy network operators have activated welfare facilities and are proactively contacting customers on the Priority Services Register."
The association advised anyone who comes across, or is aware of downed power lines to stay away and to called 105 to report it.
If there is a threat to life, people in the UK should call 999.
Met Office yellow weather warnings remain in force for wind across the whole of England and Wales until 6pm on Sunday evening.