SaskPower Outages: Current Status, Restoration Updates, and How to Stay Informed
A severe winter storm has hammered Saskatchewan, leaving thousands without power as SaskPower crews work tirelessly to restore service. With temperatures plunging to -18°C and wind chills making it feel like -27°C in Saskatoon, these outages pose a serious risk to residents. This guide provides the latest on the current outage situation, how to get real-time updates, and critical safety information for affected Canadians.
Current Outage Situation: Southwest Saskatchewan Hardest Hit
As of the morning of January 6, 2026, multiple unplanned outages are impacting communities across southwestern Saskatchewan. The situation is dynamic, with crews investigating widespread failures. The first major outage was reported around 11:17 a.m. on January 5, and new outages continued to be reported into the evening.
Major Affected Areas
Based on the latest reports from SaskPower and local media, the following regions are experiencing significant power disruptions. Crews have been dispatched, but restoration times are still being determined for many areas.
| Region/City | Status & Notes | Latest Update Time |
|---|---|---|
| Wymark, Neville, Pambrun | Crews dispatched, cause and repair time being determined. | Evening, Jan 5 |
| Lac Pelletier & Surroundings | Power still out while most other earlier outages restored. | Evening, Jan 5 |
| South of Gull Lake, Shaunavon, Vanguard, Mankota | New outages reported, no restoration time provided. | ~7:30 PM, Jan 5 |
| Cadillac, Ponteix, Richmound, Burstall, Fox Valley | Outages reported, crews investigating. | Afternoon, Jan 5 |
| Briarwood and Brighton (Saskatoon) | Power restored. Check map for current status. | Recent |
How SaskPower Provides Outage Updates
SaskPower has a structured communication process during outages. Understanding this can help you know when to expect new information.
- Initial Report: Outages are confirmed via customer reports and smart meters.
- Crew Dispatch: The first update confirms crews are en route to assess the cause.
- Assessment & Repair: Updates are provided as crews diagnose the issue and begin repairs.
- Restoration: Final update confirms when power is back on.
For outages affecting 25+ properties, updates are typically provided every 2-3 hours. However, during large-scale events like this storm, update frequency may be slower due to the complexity and number of incidents.
Official Tools to Track Power Outages in Real-Time
Rely on these official SaskPower resources for accurate information. Avoid unverified social media sources.
| Tool | What It Provides | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SaskPower Outage Map | Interactive map showing current and planned outages, estimated restoration times (when available). | Visual overview of affected areas. |
| MySaskPower App/Portal | Personalized alerts for your registered addresses, outage reporting. | Getting alerts specific to your home or business. |
| X (formerly Twitter) @SaskPower | Public updates on significant outages affecting 25+ properties. | Quick news-feed style updates. |
| Outage Centre Phone Line | To report an outage: 1-306-310-2220 (or *2220 from a SaskTel mobile). | Reporting a new outage or getting phone support. |
Winter Storm Context & Safety During an Outage
The current outages are a direct result of a major winter storm that swept across the province, bringing severe winds, freezing rain, and snow. Environment Canada reported blizzard conditions in the southeast, with strong northwesterly winds causing blowing snow. These conditions damage infrastructure and hinder repair efforts.
“Severe winds and a mix of freezing rain and snowfall delivered wide stretches of ugly road conditions and large, prolonged power outages to dozens of communities across the province,” reported the Leader-Post.
Critical Safety Tips:
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include blankets, non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio.
- Prevent Freezing Pipes: Let a tap drip slightly and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Generator Safety: Only operate generators outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on Neighbours: Especially the elderly or those with medical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report a power outage to SaskPower?
You can report an outage through the MySaskPower app or website, or by calling the SaskPower Outage Centre at 1-306-310-2220 (or *2220 from a SaskTel mobile). Reporting helps them confirm the scope of the outage.
Why is there no estimated restoration time for my area?
During major storm events with widespread damage, crews must first complete safety assessments and diagnose the cause before providing accurate repair timelines. Complex transmission failures or inaccessible terrain can delay these estimates. Updates are posted as soon as they are available.
What’s the difference between “unplanned” and “planned” outages?
Unplanned outages are caused by unforeseen events like storms, accidents, or equipment failures. Planned outages are scheduled in advance for system maintenance, upgrades, or repairs, and customers are notified ahead of time. The current situation involves widespread unplanned outages.
How does cold weather affect outage restoration?
Extreme cold poses significant challenges: it can make equipment more brittle, create hazardous working conditions for crews, and cause vehicles and machinery to fail. Crews must take additional safety precautions, which can extend repair times, but restoration remains their top priority.