Around 6,500 SaskPower customers in southwestern Saskatchewan were still without electricity Tuesday afternoon in the wake of a nasty storm.
In an emailed statement, the Crown corporation said Maple Creek and Eastend didn’t have any power because of damaged lines and poles.
A powerful spring storm has caused a number of power outages and downed lines in the south west portion of the province. If you come across a downed power line, stay at least 10 meters back and call us at 310-2220. For updates on outages visit https://t.co/lftDivhf4v #SkOutage pic.twitter.com/yPJl8CyIZk
— SaskPower (@SaskPower) April 5, 2022
4:01 PM: As conditions improve crews will attempt to restore power safely to customers, however there is the potential for some customers to without power over night. Updates will be provided as they become available. Power has been restored in #skoutage 2/3
— SaskPower (@SaskPower) April 5, 2022
According to SaskPower, around 40 power poles in the area had been knocked down by strong winds, and a lengthy section of power lines south of Maple Creek was down.
The Town of Maple Creek issued a mandatory water restriction because the water treatment plant didn’t have power.
“Due to the power grid/location of the plant and current fallen powerlines, SaskPower has estimated repairs may take a minimum of 24 hours with the potential for up to three days,” the town said in a Facebook post.
“Without power, the Water Treatment Plant is unable to treat water to maintain a supply. Thus, until further notice, the Town of Maple Creek is issuing a Mandatory Water Restriction.”
Highways in the southwestern corner of the province were impacted by the storm, which created icy and snow-covered sections and reduced visibility. The roads were still hazardous late Tuesday afternoon.
Bad roads also were hampering the work of SaskPower crews, many of whom were on standby because of the weather. As a result, SaskPower said some customers could be without power overnight.