Wind taking its toll: Thousands of customers without power on Southern Vancouver Island

High winds are knocking out power all over the capital region today.

As of 2:30PM, BC Hydro is showing 76 power outages on the lower Island, with over 27,000 customers affected. The current estimated time for power to be restored for most areas is 8PM according to the BC Hydro website.

Environment Canada says a frontal system is moving across Vancouver Island through the day. West to southwest winds of 70 to 90 km/h are presently affecting southern Vancouver Island which will spread to the affected areas of the Inner South Coast this afternoon.

For the latest outages: www.bchydro.com/outages/orsTableView.jsp

B.C. Ferries cancelled several of its sailings earlier today and others are running behind. If you are planning to take the ferry today, make sure to check the latest status before heading out: www.bcferries.com/current_conditions/service_notices.html

11:50am update: Sooke Rd. is closed just past Kangaroo Rd. with downed power lines and possibly an overflowing creek causing the problems.

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