Update: Officials say hydro has been restored on Walpole Island First Nation.
“Chi-Miigwech to all of our staff, volunteers, helpers and donators during this time,” Walpole Island First Nation officials posted on social media at 1:57 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
Thousands of residents remained without electricity Saturday morning as multiple Hydro One outages affected communities on Walpole Island, near Wallaceburg and in the Port Lambton area.
Hydro One reported at 7:40 a.m. on March 14 that eight outages on Walpole Island and around Wallaceburg were affecting 2,129 customers. The utility estimated power could be restored by 1 p.m. Saturday.
Additional outages were also reported in the Port Lambton area of Lambton County. Hydro One said three outages there were affecting 2,102 customers. An estimated time of restoration had not been provided.
Officials with Walpole Island First Nation said community facilities are open to help residents stay warm while crews work to restore power.
“Update: The expected hydro restoration time is Saturday, March 14 at 1pm. The Band office and Warming Shelter currently remain open as Emergency Warming Stations. If emergency services are needed, please call 911. Stay warm and stay safe.”
Community leaders also announced additional warming locations for residents affected by the outage.
“The Algonkin Rec Room (122 Tecumseh rd.) is opening to serve as a Warming Station. If Emergency Service is needed, please call 911.”
“The Band Office is operating as a Warming Station (Bring your own pillow and blanket). If you require emergency services, please call 911.”
Officials added that the Band Office and Warming Shelter remain open as emergency warming stations for residents needing relief from the cold.
Authorities are also urging residents to take precautions while the power remains out.
“Stay Warm: Use blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing. Eat food that doesn’t need cooking.”
“Create a Warm Zone: Choose one room, ideally in the middle of the house, and block off all others to trap heat. Create a small fort with furniture and blankets to hold body heat.”
“Cover Windows: Hang blankets, sheets, or towels over windows to prevent heat loss.”
“Safety Warning: DO NOT use a BBQ, propane heater, or gasoline generator indoors or in an attached garage – this produces fatal carbon monoxide. Use flashlights, not candles, to prevent fire risks.”
“If you have family nearby who has hydro, contact them if possible and ask to stay the night.”
Police are also reminding residents how to seek assistance during the outage.
“Due to the ongoing power outage in the community, the #WIPS is reminding residents that if you require police assistance, please call the non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. In the event of an emergency, always dial 911.”
“Thank you for your patience as crews continue working to restore power in the area.”
