The nation's power supply struggles continue with the third blackout on Upolu triggered while linesmen were carrying out clearance work on Tuesday. 

Power supplies to residents and businesses were disrupted throughout Monday and Tuesday as workers cleared up debris that caused extensive damage to power lines and electrical infrastructure. 

In a notice on its Facebook page, the Electric Power Corporation (EPC) notified the public about a total power outage around 4 pm on Tuesday affecting the entire island of Upolu. 

“Our teams are actively working to resolve the situation across all affected areas.” It could not be verified as the cause of the nationwide blackout." 

The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Vaai said safety was the priority for the corporation. 

Linesmen have been working around the clock to restore power in various communities and before they could commence work the workers started with clearance of large fallen trees.  

There were times when the corporation had to turn off the power supply in certain areas to enable workers to clear the way for their restoration work. 

Members of the public have voiced concerns about the inconsistency in power supplies while others understood the circumstances and weather conditions that damaged powerlines. 

Last month the island of Upolu encountered two blackouts attributed to technical faults with the Fiaga generator that went offline and issues with the underground cable that distributes electricity to the island. 

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, it was after 8.30 pm and the main Beach Road was still without power. Sheraton Aggie Grey Resort was also affected with guests standing outside. The water supply to the hotel was also cut off. It is unclear why the hotel's generator did not kick in.

As of 8.30 pm, Vaitele Feeder, West Coast Feeder, Industrial Feeder, Palisi Feeder, South Coast Feeder, Sauniatu Feeder, Alaoa South Coast Feeder, Lalomauga Feeder and the Hospital Feeder were restored while the power to the Lefaga Feeder and the Beach Road Feeder was still out.