Hazards in Manitoba

Power Outages


Understanding power outages

A power outage occurs when electric power is lost in a given area. Power outages can happen at any time, leaving you without essential services. To ensure the safety and well-being of your family during a power outage, it is important to be prepared and have a plan in place.


Power outages are unpredictable events that can affect our daily lives. The key to minimizing their impact is preparation.

Risk awareness:

  • Maintain awareness by monitoring information shared by your local authority.
  • Stay informed about weather conditions by monitoring local news and weather forecasts.

Planning and education:

  • Consider adding the following items to your Emergency Go Kits and/or Home Emergency Supplies: a headlamp for tasks that require both hands and solar-powered lights and flashlights.
  • Develop and practice your family emergency plan.
  • Make sure you know your local authority's evacuation routes and procedures.

Property protection strategies:

  • Check with your insurance company for power outage related coverage.
  • Protect electrical equipment with surge protectors.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector.
  • If you are considering a generator, get professional advice to ensure it is sized adequately to support your power needs.

Review the Natural Disaster Preparation Residential Checklist for more tips on how to protect your home.


Thanksgiving Weekend Outage (2019)

In October 2019, Winnipeg and surrounding areas experienced a significant power outage over the Thanksgiving weekend. Caused by a failure in an underground cable, the outage effected celebrations, caused traffic chaos, and resulted in financial losses for businesses. The incident demonstrated the importance of community support during emergencies.


When a power outage occurs, staying safe and informed is a top priority. Understanding what to do during an outage can help you stay calm and efficient.

Stay Informed:

  • Listen to battery-powered radios for outage updates from official news sources.
  • Pay close attention to updates and warnings.
  • Be prepared to evacuate or shelter in place at any time. Have your Emergency Go Kits or Home Emergency Supplies on hand.
  • Check to see if the outage is only at your residence. If neighbors are affected, report an outage.

Health and Safety:

  • Follow instructions from your local authority.
  • Minimize unnecessary travel, especially by car, due to traffic light outages and road congestion.
  • Turn off appliances and electronics to prevent damage from power surges when power is restored.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed and use them only when needed.
  • Use flashlights, not candles, to reduce the risk of fire.

Manitoba Hydro System Outage (2014)

In December 2014, Manitoba faced a major power outage that affected 200,000 people. Caused by a failing transmission line, the outage impacted daily life and challenged heating and emergency services. Manitoba Hydro's efforts to restore power took many hours. This outage highlighted the need for efficient maintenance and communication.


Once power is restored, you still may have challenges.

Stay Alert:

  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be at risk.

Property evaluation:

  • Avoid touching downed power lines and report them to Manitoba Hydro (Downed power lines (hydro.mb.ca)).
  • Check the exterior of your home for signs of damage or hazards.
  • Turn on appliances and electronics gradually to avoid damage from power surges.

Health protection

  • Follow food safety guidelines. Throw out any refrigerated food that may have gone bad during the outage.

Future preparation:


Additional Resources