BC Hydro crews continue restoration efforts following wildfire-related damage that has left nearly 18,000 customers without power in Golden, Parsons, Radium Hot Springs, Athalmer, Fairmont Hot Springs, Canal Flats and surrounding areas since approximately 8:30 p.m. last night.

Crews are currently awaiting authorization from the BC Wildfire Service to safely enter portions of the fire zone and complete a full damage assessment of the transmission system. While access remains restricted in some areas, BC Hydro has been able to patrol transmission corridors outside the active fire area and continue preliminary assessment work.

To date, BC Hydro has confirmed that several transmission structures will need to be replaced. If no additional damage is identified once crews gain further access to the area, and conditions remain favourable, including wildfire activity, weather and safe access for crews, power could be restored as early as tonight.

However, this remains a dynamic situation, and restoration timelines may change as assessments and repair work continue.

At the same time, BC Hydro distribution crews continue rebuilding damaged infrastructure serving Golden and Invermere. Repairs to the distribution system are expected to be substantially complete today. However, these sections of the system cannot be re-energized until the transmission system is restored and able to deliver power into the region.

Once transmission service is restored, additional localized outages may be identified as crews are able to fully assess and re-energize affected sections of the distribution network. BC Hydro is encouraging residents to report any damaged electrical equipment, including poles, wires or other infrastructure, to help crews identify and address issues as quickly as possible.

BC Hydro understands prolonged outages are challenging for customers and communities and appreciates the public’s patience as crews work in difficult wildfire conditions to safely restore power.

Despite wildfire activity in several regions of the province, BC Hydro’s electricity system remains stable. BC Hydro continues to work closely with the BC Wildfire Service and emergency management partners to support wildfire response efforts while prioritizing public and worker safety.

Customers are encouraged to monitor the latest outage information at bchydro.com/outages and follow all evacuation orders and alerts issued by local authorities.

e-KNOW file photo

BC Hydro

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