RRC Polytech cancels morning classes as Manitoba Hydro crews work to restore power in southern Manitoba

Power is out across southern Manitoba communities on Tuesday morning after thunderstorms moved through the region.

Crews are responding to a number of outages caused by the storm across southern parts of the province, Hydro said on social media Tuesday.

Manitoba Hydro’s outage map shows outages in Winnipeg, the Ste. Agathe area, Morris, St. Jean Baptiste and the Lorette area, affecting thousands of people. Power is expected to be restored later this morning, the website says.

The map also shows several other, smaller areas affected by outages. Specific estimated restoration times can be found on the outage map.

In a notice to students, Red River College Polytech said all morning classes at its Notre Dame campus have been cancelled due to a power outage. Classes are expected to resume by noon.

A map is pictured.
Manitoba Hydro crews are working to address several power outages across southern parts of the province on Tuesday morning. (Manitoba Hydro)

Heavy storms can weaken tree branches, which can then fall and damage equipment, Manitoba Hydro spokesperson Peter Chura said in an email.

Anyone who sees a tree or branch on a power line should stay at least 10 metres away and call 911 immediately, he said.

Anyone wanting to report an outage can do so on Manitoba Hydro’s website.