Vancouver Island Windstorm: 40,000+ BC Hydro Customers Without Power

Thousands of residents across Vancouver Island are experiencing power outages as a strong windstorm swept through the region Tuesday afternoon, leaving over 40,000 BC Hydro customers in the dark as of 5 p.m. Local time.

The hardest-hit areas include the northern regions of Parksville and French Creek, where more than 3,000 properties are without electricity. Qualicum Beach is similarly significantly affected, with approximately 2,700 homes and businesses experiencing outages, according to BC Hydro.

The outages are largely attributed to trees falling onto power lines, a common occurrence during strong wind events. A downed tree on Departure Bay Road in Nanaimo, pictured and shared widely on social media, exemplifies the widespread damage. A similar situation is reported north of Cortes Bay road, where a large tree has fallen across both lanes, contacting power lines and posing a hazard. Authorities advise staying at least 10 metres away from downed lines and contacting 911 in emergency situations.

BC Hydro is actively working to restore power, but the extent of the damage and ongoing wind conditions are complicating efforts. The utility advises that some outages may not be reflected on their outage list, and encourages customers to report them by calling 1 800 224 9376. Call volumes are expected to be highest between 9 a.m. And noon, and 4 p.m. To 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Customers can also check outage information and report issues online through BC Hydro’s website or via their virtual assistant. In-person assistance is available at BC Hydro offices in Burnaby, Nanaimo, Prince George, Surrey, Vancouver, Vernon, and Victoria, operating Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. To 4 p.m. The Nanaimo office, located at 400 Madsen Road, is currently open for in-person service.

BC Hydro’s contact centre is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. To 8 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. To 5 p.m. It’s closed on Sundays and holidays.