Fires destroy infrastructure

Photo: BC Hydro

Downed BC Hydro pole during wildfire.

Wildfires are causing significant damage to BC Hydro infrastructure.

The utility company says wildfires have caused damage to hundreds of power poles, 47 transmission structures, 114 cross arms, 181 wire spans and 32 transformers.

“These numbers are expected to rise as crews gain access to evacuated areas around Williams Lake,” Hydro said in a press release.

Emergency Management BC and BC Hydro are working with fire officials to monitor impacted areas and make repairs.

Twelve transmission structures need to be replaced in the Cache Creek-Loon Lake area.

The fires in Williams Lake have caused damage to three transmission lines, but due to fire activity and heavy smoke, crews are awaiting clearance to access the area.

To date, crews have had to repair 219 power poles and 35 transmission structures.

For more information, visit bchydro.com/outages.