Skip to content

UPDATE: Crash knocks out power to parts of Saanich

Power outage results in stores at Uptown being closed Saturday morning
9035260_web1_VNE-UptownOutage
A motor vehicle crash in the 1000-block of McKenzie Avenue west of Quadra Street early Saturday morning took out a BC Hydro pole, resulting in a power outage in the surrounding area, including Uptown Shopping Centre. Brian Nolan photo

Saanich Police responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 1000 block of McKenzie Avenue west of Quadra Street at 7:25 a.m. Saturday. A BC Hydro power pole that was compromised was initially thought to be a result of the crash, but BC Hydro tweeted ”a private customer pole fell on power lines”.

BC Hydro is on the scene where crews have partially restored power in the area. They hope to restore power to remaining 1372 customers by 6 p.m. Saanich Police reported shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday that McKenzie Avenue was reopened in both directions.

The power outage has disrupted homes and businesses in the area; stores at Uptown were closed temporarily until approximately 12 p.m. when their power was restored. Details of the outage can be obtained through the BC Hydro website.

As of this morning, traffic was unable to proceed along McKenzie Avenue near the scene of the crash. East-bound traffic on McKenzie Avenue was being diverted at Quadra Street; west-bound traffic was being diverted at Saanich Road.

No further information is available at this time.