Severe Weather and High Winds Hit Across Ontario

THUNDER BAY – The weather system that tracked through Northwestern Ontario continued eastward. Those severe weather and high winds in areas throughout the province caused power outages across Hydro One’s distribution system. There were numerous outages across Northwestern Ontario on Monday as a result of high winds.

Those conditions continued eastward. Thirty thousand Hydro One customers were without power as a result.

Where safe, Hydro One crews are out assessing damage and starting repairs. It is expected that the number of customers affected by these storms will increase as the weather system continues to move east.

“We have mobilized our crews and we are finding many trees have fallen on our lines,” Jon Rebick, Vice President Provincial Lines and Forestry, Hydro One. “Trees account for over 30 per cent of outages and we need to be mindful of vegetation that is a contributing factor, especially during severe weather events such as this.”

Currently areas most affected include:

Tracking power outages

For outage updates, download Hydro One’s free mobile app on smartphone and tablet devices or check the online outage map at HydroOne.com. Customers can check the status of power outages anywhere in Hydro One’s service area and receive helpful tips and news.

What to do in a power outage

If the power system in your area is affected by bad weather, be sure to stay clear of any fallen power lines. If you spot a fallen line, keep at least 10 metres back, even if it does not appear to be live. Report it to the police and call Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235. Safety is at the core of everything Hydro One employees do. Not only are our crews trained in First Aid, every Hydro One vehicle is equipped with a First Aid kit.

Household preparedness

Hydro One wants to remind you and your family of the importance of being prepared in case of an extended power outage caused by severe weather.