Thousands without power across the North

DISTRICT (Staff) — Tens of thousands of people across Northern Ontario are without power this Christmas Eve and in some cases it’s reported that power won’t be restored until Christmas morning.

Earlier in the morning Environment Canada issued a wind warning for the region, stating in cases winds could reach as high as 90 kilometres an hour.

Mid-morning, Hydro One issued a release stating the loss of power.

Just before noon ,Hydro One issued another release stating “large parts of northeastern Ontario affected by high winds. Multiple areas of damage, downed trees and conductor.”

The release added “Crews are working on restoration efforts. Plans are underway to move crews to the heavily affected area. It is expected that there will be thousands of customers interrupted overnight.”

The area affected, according to Hydro One, runs from the District of Algoma to the Quebec border.

In the New Liskeard area Hydro One reports that “4917” customers are affected by the power outage.

As of noon Christmas Eve it’s reported by Hydro One that 49,543 customers across Northern Ontario are without power.