Why Phone Signal Drops During Load Shedding
Share
2026-05-18
Why Phone Signal Drops During Load Shedding
During load shedding, many people notice weaker signal, slower data or dropped calls. This usually happens because mobile towers, home routers and users’ devices are all under pressure.
While you cannot control the network, you can prepare your phone and home internet setup to reduce frustration.
Why Signal Gets Worse
Cell towers need power and back-up systems to keep running. During long or repeated outages, batteries can drain and more people may connect to the same working towers.
Tower pressure
When nearby towers struggle, remaining towers can become congested.
Home Wi-Fi stops
Your fibre or router may be fine, but it cannot work without backup power.
How To Stay Connected
Prepare before outages by charging devices, saving important information offline and considering backup power for routers or mobile hotspots.
- Keep your phone and power bank charged
- Download maps or key documents in advance
- Use Wi-Fi calling if supported and available
- Consider backup power for your router or ONT
- Reduce background data use during weak-signal periods
Compare Coverage Where You Live
If one network performs poorly during outages in your area, compare alternative networks and home internet options before changing contracts.
TLDR
- Load shedding can weaken mobile signal because towers and routers need power.
- Backup power and offline preparation can help.
- Compare network performance in your actual area before switching.
