Forest fires cause blackouts in N.E. Ontario
Thousands of people in northeastern Ontario are without power as swaths of forest fires sweep through the area.
Thousands of people in northeastern Ontario are without power as swaths of forest fires sweep through the area.
One reported fire is burning a 2,300-hectare section in an area south of Hawk Junction, which is located about 800 kilometres northeast of Toronto.
The Ministry of Natural Resources said there are 236 fires burning in the region, which is high for this time of year.
One fire has destroyed hydro lines between Wawa and Chapleau, leaving 2,000 people without power. Chapleau Mayor Earle Freeborn said the town may be without power until early next week.
But he said backup generators will keep the hospital and water running despite the blackout.
"Something like 10 to 15 towers have been affected between Wawa and Chapleau," said Freeborn. "That's big damage and I can understand how it's going [to take a while] to get this back up and running."
Hydro One said it cannot send crews in to restore power until the fire is under control.
The fire is not threatening any populated areas at this time.
