More power outages on Vancouver Island anticipated as strong winds hit the region

As of this publication, there are still over 4,300 without power on Vancouver Island as a result of Tuesday’s ‘bomb cyclone’ weather system. 

Now, as the second wind storm of the week has reached the island, BC Hydro and Environment Canada are saying additional outages may occur. 

However, those who remain without power from Tuesday’s storm remain at the top of the list to have power restored. 

“On Vancouver Island, crews have been working around-the-clock since Tuesday to restore customers after the severe windstorm caused extensive damage to our system,” said BC Hydro in a statement. 

“While the majority of customers have been restored, we do expect some customers in remote or difficult to access areas will potentially be without power a day or two longer.”

The utility company added that some small pockets of remote customers may be without power until Saturday evening, as a result of long power lines being heavily damaged. 

“Although a new storm system is approaching, please know that customers who have been without power since Tuesday’s outage are our priority,” added BC Hydro. 

A special weather statement has been issued by Environment Canada which says that wind gusts may reach up to 80 km/h. 

For communities further up the western coastline of Vancouver Island, such as Bamfield, a wind warning has been issued to advise that peak winds may reach up to 110 km/h. 

Environment Canada warns of further outages and fallen tree branches which may cause damage to homes and vehicles. 

The strong winds are forecasted to subside by Friday evening.