Power outage in East Vancouver caused by crane knocking down wires

Hydro lines in East Vancouver are seen on June 17, 2026.

A power outage in East Vancouver Wednesday afternoon was caused by a crane, according to the utility.

The incident impacted more than 3,300 customers at its peak, including businesses and residences on busy Commercial Drive.

“A crane came into contact with our electrical infrastructure, resulting in downed power lines. This is a serious safety hazard,” a spokesperson for BC Hydro said, in an email to CTV News.

“The crane operator remains inside the equipment, which is the safest place to stay until crews provide further direction.”

The outage began at 11:45 a.m. and crews arrived on scene roughly an hour later.

A power outage in East Vancouver Wednesday afternoon was caused by a crane, according to the utility.

The incident impacted more than 3,300 customers at its peak, including businesses and residences on busy Commercial Drive.

“A crane came into contact with our electrical infrastructure, resulting in downed power lines. This is a serious safety hazard,” a spokesperson for BC Hydro said, in an email to CTV News.

“The crane operator remains inside the equipment, which is the safest place to stay until crews provide further direction.”

The outage began at 11:45 a.m. and BC Hydro crews arrived on scene roughly an hour later.

A spokesperson for the City of Vancouver said municipal crews also attended, and that the incident caused “sparking and a small shrub fire.”

Power is expected to be fully restored by 5 p.m.

Power is expected to be fully restored by 5 p.m.