Pimicikamak Cree Nation Power Restored After 4-Day Outage

Manitiba Hydro has restored power to Pimicikamak Cree Nation after a four-day outage that left 7,000 residents without heat in frigid winter conditions. The outage began on Sunday, December 28, 2025, when a power line crossing the Nelson River snapped, leaving the northern Manitoba community without electricity amid -30°C temperatures with wind chill. Manitoba Hydro crews completed repairs to the downed line by January 1, 2026, and began restoring power in stages to prevent equipment overload. Chief David Monias declared a state of emergency on December 29, and approximately 1,400 residents evacuated to seek shelter. The Canadian Red Cross delivered 500 generators and 600 heaters to the community. Manitoba Hydro also provided a large generator to restore the water treatment plant's operation and additional generators for warming centers.