Manitoba Hydro’s massive mobilization to repair wildfire damage has safely restored power to hundreds of customers, sooner than expected.
- Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Pukatawagan) power was restored Wednesday. Continuing repairs to one transmission line to be completed next week will enhance reliability.
- Marcel Colomb First Nation and Lynn Lake are being re-energized today.
- O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation/South Indian Lake power was restored Wednesday.
- Leaf Rapids power was restored Tuesday.
Power is being restored two to four weeks sooner than expected thanks to the work of hundreds of Manitoba Hydro employees, contractors, and our mutual aid partner SaskPower. Favourable weather, reduced wild fire activity, well-planned logistics ensuring adequate supplies of material, and well-equipped camps to house crews near work locations, helped expedite repairs.
“These communities have been under terrible strain due to this devastating wildfire season,” Manitoba Hydro Vice-President, External and Indigenous Relations, Environment and Communications Jeff Betker said. “We’re pleased we’ve been able to restore power, much more quickly than initially thought, without compromising safety.”
The 2025 Manitoba wildfires are the worst in decades. More than 2.1 million hectares burned starting in May and some fires are still burning. More than 1,000 Manitoba Hydro poles, and other related equipment, were damaged or destroyed, often in remote areas and difficult terrain. Manitoba Hydro began repairs as soon as damaged areas could be safely accessed. The cost of the restoration effort is currently estimated to be $32 million.
“The tremendous efforts of our staff cannot be understated,” Manitoba Hydro Vice President Operations Quinn Menec said. “They’ll be proud to know they have safely helped communities recover a little more quickly from the wildfire crisis.”
