École Fermer 17 Mars: School Closures and Power Outages Disrupt Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region
The Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region is facing significant disruptions on Tuesday, March 17th, due to severe weather conditions. The Centre de services scolaire (CSS) du Pays-des-Bleuets has announced the suspension of classes for all primary and secondary schools. Daycare services will remain open.
School Closures Due to Hazardous Conditions
The CSS cited slippery and unsanded roads in many areas as the primary reason for the school closures, posing a risk to student transportation. This decision prioritizes the safety of students and staff amidst the challenging weather.
Widespread Power Outages Impacting Residents
Adding to the difficulties, numerous power outages are affecting homes across the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. At their peak, over 1,400 households were without electricity. As of 6:00 AM, approximately thirty outages were reported throughout the region, according to Hydro-Québec’s Info-pannes service.
Labrecque is the most affected area, with 880 homes currently without power. Over 200 residences in the Dolbeau-Mistassini sector (Chemin de la Rivière) and Sainte-Jeanne-D’Arc (Chemin Principal) are also experiencing outages. Hydro-Québec estimates that most power will be restored by 7:00 AM. The cause of the outages remains under investigation.
Severe Weather Warnings in Effect
Saguenay is currently experiencing rain and strong winds. Lac-Saint-Jean is anticipating rain turning to snow this morning. Environment Canada has issued warnings for potential wind gusts throughout the morning and early afternoon. Westerly winds of 30 km/h with gusts up to 60 km/h are expected throughout the day. A yellow weather warning related to wind is currently in effect for the City of Saguenay.
Provincial Impact
As of shortly after 6:00 AM, over 125,100 Hydro-Québec customers province-wide were without power. The Laurentides, Lanaudière, and Montreal regions are also heavily affected.
Stay Informed
For the latest updates on power outages, visit the Hydro-Québec website. Stay tuned to Radio-Canada for ongoing coverage of the situation. You can also find more information on weather warnings from Environment Canada.
Reporting Information: If you witness an event or have information to share, please contact Radio-Canada. For questions about journalistic standards and practices, visit their website.
