Tumbler Ridge Transmission Tower Update July 14
Please read the latest, July 18 9:00 a.m. update
Tumbler Ridge Transmission Tower Update July 14, 5:30 p.m.
BC Hydro advises that the wooden transmission structure located 68 kms south of the WAC Bennett Dam, between Hudson’s Hope and Chetwyn that services Tumbler Ridge is at greater risk of falling today than was determined earlier this week and should the transmission structure fall, a power outage will occur in Tumbler Ridge. Should this occur, BC Hydro will work quickly and safely to re-establish power by constructing an immediate temporary solution and the length of the outage will depend on how quickly this can be safely done – a minimum of 1 to 2 days, and possibly longer depending on field conditions. Reports from the field indicate that safely carrying out work in the area will be hampered by poor road access and site stability.
In the event of an extended outage, the Provincial Emergency Program will be engaged and we will support their efforts.
We will continue to provide information and as much advance notice as possible of potential power interruptions Information will also be posted through the offices and website of the District of Tumbler Ridge.
Additional Information:
BC Hydro field operations observed this afternoon deteriorating conditions around a wood pole structure that is part of the 230 kilovolt transmission line to Tumbler Ridge. Monitoring of the site has been ongoing since the beginning of this week. This area has been subject to significant rainfall and high water levels at High Hat Creek, leading to soil saturation on a hillside where the transmission tower is located. Earlier this week, BC Hydro completed a geotechnical assessment and plans were underway to begin construction of two new wood pole structures on both sides of High Hat Creek on higher, more solid ground.