Manitoba First Nation declares state of emergency due to power outage

A power outage since Sunday has prompted a state of emergency in a northern Manitoba community.

A northern Manitoba First Nation has declared a state of emergency due to a power outage in their community.

Pimicikamak Cree Nation declared the state of emergency in Cross Lake due to the power outage, which occurred Sunday night. Manitoba Hydro said a 1,000-foot stretch of power line crossing the Nelson River is down and in need of repair.

“The work must be done in daylight for safety, so crews will begin work as soon a possible Tuesday,” Hydro said in a statement.

Manitoba Hydro said an access road to the site is being cleared Monday to allow crews to reach the downed line.

Chief David Monias said the outage is impacting homes, critical infrastructure and essential services.

“The loss of power poses a serious risk to the health and safety of our people,” Monias wrote in a statement on Facebook. “Elders, children, families, and medically vulnerable individuals are being impacted by the inability to heat homes, preserve food and medications, access clean water, and maintain reliable communication and emergency services.”

Monias also said warming and support centres will be open in the community as part of the state of emergency. CTV News has reached out to Monias for further comment.

In a statement, the Canadian Red Cross said they are providing support for Pimicikamak Cree Nation who have been evacuated due to the outage.

“Support includes reception and registration services, emergency accommodations, meals, and other essential assistance at hotels in Thompson,” spokesperson Jason Small wrote to CTV Winnipeg.

“At the request of the community, the Canadian Red Cross is also shipping heaters and generators to assist people remaining in the community.”

Small said the Red Cross will continue to work with the community as the situation develops.