Animal causes 500 customer power outage in Minaki

Hydro One says crews are continuing to work to restore power to the Minaki and Malachi areas north of Kenora, after over 500 customers were without power early this morning.

Hydro One says the issue was reported to crews around 7:30 a.m., and no power was found from any feeders out of Minaki. Their investigation has revealed that the cause of the outage was 'contact with an animal.'

The utility says the majority of homes have had their power restored, and any remaining issues are expected to be resolved by 2 p.m. this afternoon.

Hydro One reminds all members of the public to always stay clear of downed power lines or equipment, and never assume they are safe to approach.