SPARKING POWER LINES BLACKOUT DARBY STREET

There were frightening scenes on Darby Street at Newcastle overnight, after power lines sparked on the popular dining strip.

Emergency services were called to the scene just before 7 o’clock.

Vision has emerged, showing parts of the street being showered in sparks.

Dozens of restaurants were evacuated, sending a section into darkness for several hours.

Witnesses have told NBN News there was a great deal of confusion and distress.

Authorities blocked off the road for around an hour and a half, as Ausgrid crews and police worked to mop up the damage.

Meredith Gibbs will have more details in NBN News tonight at 6.

Videos: @leightonwallis & Mitchell Henderson