MORE than 600 homes in the Tweed Shire were plunged into darkness after a power pole was struck by lightning on Thursday night.

Essential Energy spokeswoman Rachel Hussell said 603 customers west of Murwillumbah experienced a power outage.

Ms Hussell said the lightning strike, which occurred about 5.40pm on Tyalgum Rd, Eungella, destroyed electrical equipment and brought down powerlines.

“Crews responded immediately and worked as quickly as safety would allow to replace equipment and re-string lines,” Ms Hussell said.

All customers had their power restored by 11.15pm.

With storm season continuing, Ms Hussell urged customers to act safety around power lines.

“Stay at least eight metres away from damaged or fallen powerlines,” she said.

“Always treat lines as live, remembering that anything in contact with them, such as cars, trees or fences, can conduct electricity and pose a danger.”

Murwillumbah State Emergency Service deputy controller John Macgregor-Skinner said his crew’s only callout overnight was to Back Creek Rd, Brays Creek, where blocked gutters had caused water to leak into a home about 7pm.

He encouraged residents to clear their gutters and prepare for further possible storms.

If you notice fallen trees, smoke or scorched areas around electrical equipment, contact Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80.