Storm season along coastal B.C. can bring powerful systems which can knock power out for several days in some circumstances. BC Hydro is hoping more people are prepared this winter. (BC Hydro)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

storm season

‘Storms are happening more often:’ Hydro makes preparedness pleas ahead of winter months

Oct 9, 2025 | 3:50 PM

NANAIMO — With a wetter winter widely predicted for the mid-Island, BC Hydro are telling their customers to get prepared.

Intense storms are all but assured through the winter months, with a La Nina pattern established which typically drives more active weather with stronger winds and precipitation-laden systems.

BC Hydro’s Susie Rieder said they get ahead of storm season by clearing branches, vegetation and trees away from their power lines and other key infrastructure, but they can only do so much.

“We have had several years of drought conditions which have really contributed to brittle branches, dry soil. Get prepared, because these storms are happening more often with climate change. Last year, 1.4 million BC Hydro customers faced weather-related outages and that was the highest on record.”

In addition to work in communities, particularly through coastal areas, BC Hydro employs a number of meteorologists to look specifically at weather patterns from an impact-to-infrastructure perspective.

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Rieder said their advice then gives crews a jump start on responding to outages.

“Our meteorologists are able to see a storm coming, predict the pattern, and then we can send crews and materials to the areas where we think there may be more outages, so it definitely helps in major storm situations to enhance our field response.”

Preparation also begins at home, according to Rieder.

A recent survey conducted by the utility showed middle-aged adults are among the most prepared for storm season, by securing items like patio furniture and ensuring their emergency kit is stocked and ready.

Younger generations, despite commenting the most that storms are getting more frequent, are less likely to take tangible action.

Rieder called it a real “generational divide” and said those aged 18-34 are more focused on reaching out in an emergency than they are on self-sufficiency.

“They are actually the most likely to have key phone numbers memorized, so kind of a surprising mix of digital dependence and that old school preparedness. They’re not so concerned about the water and the flashlight and being prepared with that kit, but they are really concerned about losing power to their phones and losing that connection to others.”

Cost, or the perceived cost, of an emergency kit was also another barrier for younger British Columbians.

Many surveyed believed adequate kits cost $50 or more, however Rieder said a bag with bottled water, a flashlight, spare batteries and some non-perishable food can be put together for around $20.

Information about outages is available on the BC Hydro website.

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