Strong Winds Causing Power Outages Across Yukon - October 26, 2020

Strong winds across Yukon are causing power outages in communities across the territory. Always assumed downed power lines are energized. If you see a downed or low-hanging power line, stay at least 10 meters back.

UPDATE (3 p.m. Oct 27)

Power was restored to all remaining areas affecting by yesterday's power outage at 2:40 p.m. this afternoon. Thank you for everyone's patience and support as we worked to restore power yesterday and today.

With snow on the ground now and cooler temperatures on the horizon, yesterday’s wind storm is a great reminder that severe weather can cause prolonged power outages sometimes. Take some time over the next couple of weeks to build your 72-hour emergency kit. Make sure it has everything you need to take care of you and your family for 3 days. Visit the Government of Canada's website for ideas about what to include in your kit https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/yprprdnssgd/index-en.aspx

UPDATE (2 P.m. oct 27):

Power was restored to the remainder of customers in South Fox shortly after 1:30 this afternoon.

We've also been able to energize the transmission line between Whitehorse and Carmacks. The transmission line between Carmacks and Faro will be energized in the next couple of hours after we complete some system checks at the Carmacks substation. We're sorry for the delay and thank everyone for your patience and understanding as we work to get everyone back on.

UPDATE (11 a.m. Oct 27):

Power was restored to customers in Mendenhall at 9:30 this morning.

Crews continue to remove trees like this from the transmission line between Whitehorse and Faro. At this time, crews are optimistic that power can be restored to customers in Drury Creek, Little Fox, Little Salmon and McGundy Creek between noon and 1 p.m. today. More updates to follow as they become available.

Update (6 A.M. OCT 27):

Yukon Energy crews were able to restore power to an additional 30 customers in Braeburn and South Fox before midnight last night by installing a mobile diesel generator in the communities.

Approximately 95 customers in Drury Creek, Little Fox, Little Salmon, McGundy Creek, parts of Mendenhall, and a pocket of South Fox are still without power.

Yukon Energy crews will fly-over the transmission line between Whitehorse and Faro at first light this morning and continue with repairs. Estimated time of restoration is still mid-day today. More updates to follow as they become available.

UPDATE (9 p.m. Oct 26): 

High winds have caused multiple trees to land on the transmission line between Whitehorse and Carmacks, and Carmacks and Faro. With it being so dark and slick out now, crews will not be able to complete repairs to the transmission line before they hour out and must stop working. Customers in the following communities will unfortunately be without power until about mid-day Tuesday, October 27. Additional status updates will be provided in the morning.

Areas affected by the power outage: Breaburn, South Fox, Little Fox, Drury Creek, McGundy Creek, Little Salmon and some parts of Mendenhall.

UPDATE (7 p.m. Oct 26):

Yukon Energy and ATCO Electric Yukon crews are working together to restore outages as quickly and safely as possible in communities experiencing a power outage. Your patience and understanding are appreciated.