BC Hydro restores power to Clinton, but more work to be done

“While customers in surrounding areas remain without power as restoration work continues, restoring electricity to Clinton will support critical infrastructure – including water facilities – and residents once they are able to return home.”

The Village of Clinton said in a public statement that there is no timeline for residents to return home yet.

“Securing the Village of Clinton and surrounding area to support a safe return for all residents is a priority; however, the evacuation order for the Village of Clinton remains in place, and there is currently no estimated timeline for re-entry,” said Village officials.

“While the evacuation order remains in place, access is restricted to authorized personnel only.”

The BC Wildfire Service said the fire is expected to get more aggressive over the coming days, and crews are preparing to protect the community.

“BCWS crews have planned for these conditions and continue working to strengthen control lines and protect the community. BCWS and Clinton Volunteer Department remain in the Village of Clinton and continue to maintain hose and sprinkler systems, patrol for hot spots and protect homes and critical infrastructure,” said the Village.

“On all sides of the Village of Clinton, BCWS continue to put out hot spots, strengthen control lines and removing vegetation that could still burn. This work helps reduce the risk of the fire spreading within the community.”

As of Saturday morning (August 8), the BCWS estimates the fire to have grown to 136,485.08 hectares (about 1,365 square kilometres).

So far, fires have destroyed over 1,000 wooden power poles across the Southern Interior, with more damage expected to be identified as BC Hydro crews gain more access to their infrastructure.

“Crews continue to closely monitor wildfire activity near critical transmission lines, substations, communications facilities and microwave sites. Protective measures include vegetation removal, the application of fire retardant and, where necessary, the installation of sprinkler systems to help safeguard essential infrastructure,” said BC Hydro.

“BC Hydro crews are also supporting BC Wildfire Service operations by helping clear roads, remove hazardous trees and improve access routes for firefighters, first responders and critical services.”

BC Hydro said work to restore power is continues in Vernon and Spallumcheen.

“Approximately 3,100 customers remain without power due to the Bradley Creek wildfire, where evacuation orders remain in place and many residents are unable to return to their homes,” said BC Hydro.

“Restoration efforts continue to be challenged by hot, dry conditions and active wildfire behaviour. Crews are frequently required to pause work and move to safer locations as conditions change, affecting damage assessments, road access preparation, civil construction work, material delivery and other activities needed before power lines can be rebuilt and re-energized.”

The power company said crews have identified over 200 power poles in the area, with more expected to be found.

“The full extent of the impact on electrical infrastructure is still being assessed. The pace of restoration will depend on wildfire activity, weather conditions, site access and the ability for crews to work safely,” said BC Hydro.

by Elora McCormack

BC Hydro restores power to Clinton, but more work to be done

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