SASKATOON – High winds sweeping across Saskatchewan are causing power outages in some regions, including Saskatoon.
Power was knocked out in Pleasant Hill, Sutherland, University Heights Industrial Area, Exhibition area, Preston Crossing and Silverspring.
Power has now been restored to Preston Crossing, Sutherland and Silverspring. Most power has been restored to University Heights Industrial with the exception of 10 customers surrounding 103rd Street who are expected to have power back by 3 p.m.
The lights are also back on in Pleasant Hill and power is back on for everyone affected in the Exhibition area with the exception of one customer.
City officials say they are preparing to handle potential power outages throughout the wind storm and will respond to issues as they arise.
Wind gusts reached 102 km/h Wednesday morning in Saskatoon.
Anyone seeing downed power lines in the city should call 306-975-2621.
Both public and Catholic school divisions in Saskatoon have instituted a ‘Shelter in Place” for all elementary schools due to the winds. Students will be kept inside to ensure their safety.
All bus and taxi transportation for students is running as usual.
Police are advising drivers to treat intersections as a four-way stop if the traffic lights are not working.
The high winds may have caused a semi to tip on its side between Saskatoon and Warman.
SaskPower is reporting power is out in Domremy, Birch Hills, Hagen and all surrounding rural areas and towns. There is no estimate on when power will be restored due to extensive damage from the weather.
Power is also out in Pierceland and all surrounding areas, and is expected to be restored by 1 p.m. Power was also out in Warman but has since been restored.
Trees on lines and dropped fuses have knocked out power north of Laird and in the Candle Lake, Christopher Lake and Mistawasis areas. Crews will be working throughout the day to restore power.
There was also an emergency outage in Rosthern where it appeared a crane came down on some power lines. Power has been restored.
SaskPower says there are some steps to take in the event of a power outage:
- turn off or unplug any appliances, computers or electronics that were being used when the power went out
- keep refrigerators and freezers closed
- close all doors, windows and drapes to conserve heat
- never light a fire indoors unless it is in an approved fire place or wood stove
- leave one light on to indicate when power is restored
Once power has been restored, the electrical needs a chance to stabilize. Only essential equipment and appliances should be turned on first with other items turned on 10-15 minutes later.
A wind warning is in place for much of southern and central Saskatchewan on Wednesday, with winds expected to be in the 50-60 km/h range gusting at times to over 100 km/h.
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