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High Winds Create Major Power Outages across Ontario

Toronto, Oct. 15, 2003 - High winds starting early this morning gusting up to 90 kilometres an hour have caused major power outages affecting over 35,000 Hydro One customers across Ontario.

The winds have inflicted substantial tree damage on low voltage power distribution systems from the southwest near Simcoe and Beachville, across the Penetang, Muskoka, Huntsville, Nipissing/North Bay, Newmarket and Bowmanville areas, and further east including Minden, Fenelon Falls, Peterborough, Tweed and Bancroft.

All available lines and forestry crews have been mobilized and deployed to the damaged areas.

As of mid-afternoon there was no sign that wind speeds were dropping substantially. This is significantly hampering power restoration efforts since in many cases circuits are being knocked out as quickly as others are restored. Also, use of helicopters has been limited because of the weather which further restricts the staff's ability to locate and access damaged equipment. This is a particular concern for Hydro One since much of its distribution system is off-road and only accessible by foot or helicopter patrols.

If winds subside, Hydro One believes most customers should have their power back by late this evening. Regardless, there will be customers in remote locations such as islands without power tonight.

The public is advised to stay well away from downed power lines, trees and branches.

Hydro One Networks owns and operates the province-wide electricity high voltage transmission network and largest low voltage distribution system in Ontario that serves over one million end-use customers. Hydro One is wholly-owned by the provincial government.

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For more information, contact Hydro One Media Relations 24 hours a day at
1-877-506-7584 (toll-free in Ontario only) or 416-345-6868.