BC Wind Storm Knocked Out Power to 400,000 Homes
The lower mainland fell victim to a vicious storm yesterday as winds reached over 90 km/hour in some regions, causing widespread property damage and dangerous driving conditions.
Over 400,000 homes are without power, forcing thousands to live without heat and hot water until the damage to hydro lines can be repaired.
Agencies are urging people to stay at home as downed power lines, uprooted trees and debris blow across yards and streets. At least one person is suffering from life-threatening injuries after being struck by a tree while walking down a Surrey street.
"There have been…been several near misses between trees and members of the public," Sgt. Bill Parmar, RCMP, said. "The current storm is making it very dangerous for the public and the first responders."
B.C. Hydro and Surrey RCMP are out in full force, responding to reports of downed power lines and trees crashed into cars. "What I can tell you is that we have all hands on deck... to repair damaged lines," BC Hydro's Kevin Aquino said. "We had a number of trees and branches [that have] come down on wires knocking out power."
Property damage is potentially in the millions as people scramble to protect their homes and stay safe after the storm.
Several closures have also occurred since the storm. Vancouver’s Stanley Park and Pacific National Exhibition were temporarily closed due to severe weather but reopened after debris was cleared and Environment Canada’s wind warning was lifted.
Ferry services to several of the Gulf Islands were cancelled while other ships waited in Active Pass for the winds to ease. Vancouver’s Skytrain system was also affected after a tree fell across the tracks at the Royal Oak Station. Personnel responded as quickly as possible to restore service to affected areas.
The troubles don’t end there, however, Vancouver is bracing for more weather. Heavy rainfall is predicted with between 50mm and 75mm in rain expected over the next four days.
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