High winds overnight cause pockets of small local power outages

Hydro One says its crews are working as quickly as possible to restore power to tens of thousands of customers after high winds overnight caused outages in several parts of the province.

Locally, the urban core of the city is spared, but outages are reported in nearly every community westbound from Sudbury on Highway 17. There are also outages in the Walden, Fairbanks, Blezard Valley, Valley East and Skead, as well as in the area of Burwash and Estaire. 

“​Hydro One crews are working as safely and quickly as possible to restore power to customers affected by the damaging high winds that started yesterday across the province,” a message on Hydro One’s outage map reads. “We have mobilized crews from other parts of the province along with our contractors to assist with restoration efforts; however, we anticipate additional outages will occur as high wind gusts and rain continue to move east.” 

Weather-related road closures, like the one affecting Highway 144 today, is delaying restoration times.

Hydro One cCustomers can report outages by texting 92887 (WATTS), through the company’s outage map and app, or by calling 1-800-434-1235. Outage tools are updated every 10 minutes as information comes in from crews on the ground. An estimated time of restoration will be determined for each outage once damage has been assessed.

“​​​Be sure to stay clear of any fallen power lines. If you spot a fallen line, keep at least 10 meters back, even if it does not appear to be live. Report it to 911 and call Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235.”