By Jill Sperling

Kamloops linemen posted in North Carolina to restore power after storm passes

Sep 15, 2018 | 9:14 AM

KAMLOOPS — Tropical storm Florence is hammering the Carolinas with heavy rain, and powerful winds, knocking out power to nearly a million homes and businesses. 

While the storm rages on power line technicians from all over the U.S. and Canada, including several from Kamloops, are on standby, waiting for their chance to begin repairs. 

Local lineman Don Shymko arrived in Charlotte, North Carolina on Thursday. 

“We’re going to be here until the storm hits and passes through,” Shymko said, “and then we will get dispatched out to start helping rebuild. We could be put up in gymnasiums on cots, warehouses they’ve done before.” 

Other Kamloops linemen include Darren Daye, Kelly Whitehead, Nathan Fennell, and Andy Donaldson. 

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Shymko says their duties will include cutting fallen trees off power lines, installing new poles, and essentially rebuilding the power system. 

While it’s dangerous work, Shymko views the task as a way to help out his neighbours in need.

“Everybody needs power and it’s pretty tough to live without power,” he said. “To help out, obviously they’re in need, it feels good to come down and help out. It is our neighbours, so go and help out, and if we need some support from the U.S. hopefully they can come and help us.” 

Shymko did similar work when hurricane Sandy struck New York City in 2012.