26 Dec 2018 | 07:39 PM UTC
Canada: Power disruptions continue in British Columbia December 26 /update 1
Some areas of British Columbia remain without power as of December 26; power expected to be restored to all customers between December 27-31
Event
Around 7000 people remain without power in British Columbia as of Wednesday, December 26, following a windstorm during the previous week. According to the local power company, BC Hydro, system repairs are ongoing and customers on Vancouver Island can expect electricity to return on Thursday, December 27. Service outages for residents on the Gulf Islands may persist until Monday, December 31, however, due to more extensive damage in the area.
Context
Over 300,000 people initially left without power in British Columbia after a severe storm hit the region on December 20. The storm reportedly hit the city of Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Fraser Valley with wind speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph), downing trees and power lines; at least one person was left dead after being struck by a falling tree on Vancouver Island.
Advice
Individuals in British Columbia are advised to monitor developments to the situation and keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible.
