Residents of a northern Manitoba First Nation are facing an extended power outage that is expected to last until late in the day on New Year’s Eve. Pimicikamak Cree Nation declared a state of emergency on Monday after a widespread power loss in the Cross Lake area at around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Initially advised that power might be restored by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, residents have been informed that the restoration timeline has been pushed back to 6 p.m. on Wednesday. The outage has impacted approximately 1,300 meters, affecting a larger number of individuals.
The outage was caused by a snapped power line discovered about 10 kilometers north of Pimicikamak, crossing the Nelson River. Repair work necessitates daylight hours for safety reasons, according to Manitoba Hydro spokesperson Peter Chura. Specialized equipment, including track vehicles, is being used to clear an access road to the site.
Chief David Monias, who was away on holiday when the outage occurred, is returning to Pimicikamak to oversee relief efforts. With temperatures dropping below -20 degrees Celsius and feeling even colder due to wind chill, efforts are underway to provide warmth and shelter to vulnerable community members. The public works building and an old nursing station have been opened to house those without power.
Emergency support is being coordinated with various provincial and federal agencies, including Indigenous Services Canada and Premier Wab Kinew. The Canadian Red Cross is assisting with evacuations and providing accommodations, meals, heaters, and generators to those affected by the outage. The organization will continue to collaborate closely with Pimicikamak’s leadership and Indigenous Services Canada throughout the situation.
Residents like Lori Osborne are facing challenges due to the outage, with limited access to essential resources such as water, heating, and food. The community is pulling together to provide assistance, with grocers offering food and water, and financial aid being distributed at the local gas station.
Despite the difficulties, community members are rallying to support each other during this challenging time, ensuring that everyone’s needs are addressed.