WINNIPEG – Sunday the Manitoba government declared a provincial state of emergency for Manitoba Hydro to help deal with the aftermath of the major winter storm, said Premier Brian Pallister.
“It is clear the tremendous effort to restore power and other activities will be ongoing for some time,” said Pallister. “The state of emergency will help with that effort.”
The declaration of a state of emergency allows Manitoba Hydro to invoke it’s mutual aid clauses with neighbouring utilities for assistance required to restore Hydro in many communities still without power. It applies in all portions of the Province of Manitoba impacted by failed and failing hydro lines and distribution infrastructure. Several municipalities have declared their own states of local emergency already.
Manitoba Hydro has already reached out to Hydro One, Minnesota Power and Sask Power to request specific resources such as replacement transmission towers, distribution poles and specialized electrical equipment as well as crews to help with restoration.
“The declaration will provide Manitoba Hydro with access to additional resources outside of Manitoba to assist in their response to the storm, which continues to create issues for Manitobans and repair crews,” said Pallister. “Hundreds of workers are trying to restore services for thousands of customers who remain without power.”
Temperature is forecast to fluctuate between 0 C and 4 C for the next few days, which could start a gradual melt in areas where precipitation was snow.
The Red River Floodway is expected to operate until the end of October being activated at approximately 7 p.m. on Oct. 9, under Rule 4 to lower levels within the city of Winnipeg.
Rivers, lakes and streams in south and southwest Manitoba continue to rise and are being monitored by officials from municipalities and the province.
Levels at the Whiteshell lakes continue to rise.
Sand and bags are available at the following locations for Whiteshell residents responding to high water.
Caddy Lake boat launch, Green Bay Road garbage cage and West Hawk and Falcon Lake maintenance yards.
Manitoba Hydro asks motorists and pedestrians to stay clear of crews working on downed lines. Anyone coming across fallen trees and power lines should avoid contact and call 911.