Earlier this evening the Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens formally declared the current situation in South Australia to be an Identified Major Incident under the Section 22 of the Emergency Management Act 2004. This is a process to support state emergency management services and support agencies in a co-ordinated and efficient manner as they respond to current events. 

The declaration has been made in response to the state-wide power outage that occurred this afternoon in conjunction with the severe weather events being experienced.

The community is asked to avoid any non-essential travel this evening.

Many businesses and services across SA have been disrupted. Power is expected to be progressively restored, with some areas already experiencing some resumption in service.

However, with is unclear how long full resumption of service will take, with the community being asked to remain calm, to avoid  leaving their homes and to be patient  on the roads if it is necessary to travel.

South Australia Police are also asking the owners and occupiers of buildings with lifts to check if anyone is trapped in their facility tonight. Emergencies services have already assisted a number of people out of lifts, but are asking that buildings be checked. If anyone is identified as being trapped please call Triple Zero (000) for assistance.

Train and tram services were disrupted in Adelaide this evening, and although bus services have been extended, the Adelaide Town Hall has been opened for anyone who may have difficulties getting home. Other accommodation is being provided for people who normally may sleep rough.

Emergency Triple Zero  (000) networks are working – but people are being asked to please refrain from calling unless it is a life  threatening situation.

Please check on vulnerable neighbours and people  in your community to ensure they are safe and fully aware of the issue.

Police would also recommend that you conserve your phone battery if  possible and be aware there may be connectivity issues.

Tune in to the state emergency broadcaster, ABC, on a battery  powered radio where possible for updates.