Severe Winds Knock Out Power for Thousands Across North Okanagan

Widespread Outages Hit North Okanagan Communities

Residents across the North Okanagan faced a turbulent Sunday as powerful wind gusts swept through the region, downing trees and disrupting the electrical grid. At the peak of the storm, thousands of BC Hydro customers found themselves without electricity, with service interruptions spanning from the northern reaches of Westside Road up to the community of Armstrong.

BC Hydro Responds to Tree Damage

The primary cause of the disruptions has been identified as heavy winds blowing trees and branches into power lines. One of the most significant impacts occurred in the Cherryville area along Highway 6, where 839 customers lost power shortly before 9:00 a.m. Crews were dispatched to clear debris and repair infrastructure as the Southern Interior continues to grapple with persistent wind conditions. While power has been restored to many in Armstrong and along Westside Road as of Sunday afternoon, hundreds remain in the dark as technical teams prioritize repairs.

Ongoing Restoration Efforts

Smaller localized outages have also been reported in Okanagan Centre, Salmon Arm, and the Creighton Valley area. In Creighton Valley alone, approximately 37 customers are waiting for reconnection following damage to local equipment. BC Hydro officials emphasize that while crews are working as quickly as possible, the safety of technicians remains a priority as strong winds are expected to persist throughout the day. Residents are reminded to stay at least 10 meters back from any downed power lines and report emergencies to 911 immediately.

Regional Weather Patterns

This surge in outages coincides with a broader weather system moving through British Columbia’s Interior, bringing high-velocity winds that often challenge aging infrastructure and weakened trees. For those still without service, BC Hydro maintains a live outage map to provide real-time updates on restoration estimates and crew assignments. As the wind event continues, residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and prepare emergency kits in the event of further interruptions.