ReutersBC Hydro deployed multiple crews to assess and repair damage from power outages. By early evening, some areas had power restored, though full restoration would take several hours. The warm weekend afternoon exacerbated difficulties for residents, leading to food spoilage, disrupted activities, and communication issues. (File Image)
More than 2,700 homes lost electricity due to a BC Hydro outage on Saturday, May 31, after multiple outages struck parts of the Okanagan and Shuswap regions. The outages were centered along Westside Road, affecting areas north of West Kelowna, including parts of Vernon, Killiney Beach, and the Westshore Estates.
BC Hydro reported three separate outages. The largest, affecting over 1,900 customers, was caused by a downed wire due to heavy winds around 1:45 p.m. PDT. This outage impacted areas between Irish Creek Road and Westshore Road in the North Okanagan.
The second outage was reported near Bear Creek Main Road. It left about 500 customers in the dark. A downed wire also caused this outage, which occurred just after 2 p.m. PDT. The third outage was located in the Westshore Estates area and affected nearly 300 customers. The cause of this outage was not immediately confirmed.
Many residents shared their concerns on social media, noting the frequent power cuts in the region, especially during bad weather.
BC Hydro sent multiple crews to assess and repair the damage. By early evening, power had been restored to some areas, but complete restoration was expected to take several hours. The utility company stated it worked quickly and safely to restore power to all affected households.
The outages came on a warm weekend afternoon, which made the situation even more difficult for some residents. People reported food spoilage, disrupted home activities, and communication challenges due to the lack of power.
Officials reminded the public to avoid downed lines and report such issues immediately to BC Hydro. “Downed power lines are dangerous. Keep at least 10 metres away and call 911 or BC Hydro,” the utility warned in a statement.
While the exact cause of the downed wires remains under investigation, weather and natural wear are often contributing factors in rural areas like Westside Road. The terrain, dense trees, and remote properties make quick repair work more difficult.
BC Hydro’s website provided live updates throughout the day. Residents were advised to check the outage map for current information and estimated repair times.
The company also thanked customers for their patience. “We understand how frustrating this is. Our crews are doing everything they can to get your power back on,” the utility said.
BC Hydro reported three separate outages. The largest, affecting over 1,900 customers, was caused by a downed wire due to heavy winds around 1:45 p.m. PDT. This outage impacted areas between Irish Creek Road and Westshore Road in the North Okanagan.
The second outage was reported near Bear Creek Main Road. It left about 500 customers in the dark. A downed wire also caused this outage, which occurred just after 2 p.m. PDT. The third outage was located in the Westshore Estates area and affected nearly 300 customers. The cause of this outage was not immediately confirmed.
Many residents shared their concerns on social media, noting the frequent power cuts in the region, especially during bad weather.
BC Hydro sent multiple crews to assess and repair the damage. By early evening, power had been restored to some areas, but complete restoration was expected to take several hours. The utility company stated it worked quickly and safely to restore power to all affected households.
The outages came on a warm weekend afternoon, which made the situation even more difficult for some residents. People reported food spoilage, disrupted home activities, and communication challenges due to the lack of power.
Officials reminded the public to avoid downed lines and report such issues immediately to BC Hydro. “Downed power lines are dangerous. Keep at least 10 metres away and call 911 or BC Hydro,” the utility warned in a statement.
While the exact cause of the downed wires remains under investigation, weather and natural wear are often contributing factors in rural areas like Westside Road. The terrain, dense trees, and remote properties make quick repair work more difficult.
BC Hydro’s website provided live updates throughout the day. Residents were advised to check the outage map for current information and estimated repair times.
The company also thanked customers for their patience. “We understand how frustrating this is. Our crews are doing everything they can to get your power back on,” the utility said.
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