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Hudson declares state of emergency after major blackouts

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Hudson state of emergency
WATCH ABOVE: Though most residents in Montreal should have their power back by Thursday night, the town of Hudson has declared a state of emergency due to major power outages. Global's Felicia Parrillo reports – Feb 25, 2016

HUDSON – As the community of Hudson woke up Thursday morning, half of its homes had no power at all.

Freezing rain and strong winds knocked out power lines in the small town, forcing its mayor to declare a state of emergency.

“We’re expecting a temperature of -15°C during the night, so we are worrying for our citizens, we want to make sure they are served and protected during the night,” said Hudson’s Director General Jean-Pierre Roy.

READ MORE: Some Quebec homes may only get power back on Saturday

The tight knit community rallied together and its community centre opened its doors to welcome residents in need.

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“I find everybody in a situation like this, they get down all to the same level,” said Patricia Harding, a building monitor at Hudson’s community centre.

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“Let’s be warm, let’s have a cup of coffee – it’ll be a lot of fun.”

The centre prepared beverages, snacks, bedding and wi-fi.

“It’s difficult,” said one Hudson resident.

“When you’re so used to using electricity. The kids and everybody are freaking out because they don’t have wi-fi.”

A blacked-out street in Hudson, Quebec, Thursday, February 25, 2016. Felicia Parrillo / Global News

 

Across the province, tens of thousands of homes and businesses were left without power after trees and branches came in contact with power lines.

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READ MORE: Montrealers be warned – winter isn’t over yet

 

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