PORT ALBERNI: BC Hydro has begun restoration work today following extensive damage caused by the Mount Underwood wildfire, which has left more than 500 customers in Bamfield, the Huu-ay-aht First Nation and Ditidaht First Nation without power since August 11.
After receiving clearance from BC Wildfire Service on August 15, BC Hydro conducted a full patrol and damage assessment, which confirmed the damage is significant: 56 power poles, along with associated wire and hardware, will need to be replaced. Crews will need to restring 70 spans of power line – roughly 20 kilometres in total. The rebuild will cover six kilometres, including two kilometres of particularly difficult terrain marked by steep forested cliffs and unstable rock.
Starting today, three crews will be on-site, supported by ten vegetation workers and four pole-digging machines. Initial efforts will focus on ground preparation and pole installation. Additional crews will be brought in to accelerate the rebuild as work progresses.
Due to the highway closure, crews will initially access the site through Duncan, adding approximately two hours of travel time each way. Once the road reopens, access will improve significantly.
Given the scale of the damage and the challenging terrain, BC Hydro estimates that power restoration could take up to two weeks. Timelines will be reassessed regularly, and BC Hydro is hopeful as work continues the timeline can be accelerated.
The safety of BC Hydro crews, first responders and the public remains the top priority throughout this restoration effort. For ongoing updates, visit bchydro.com/outages.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468