Significant Power Outages Across Quebec
A major hydro quebec outage has left over 61,000 customers without power as of March 11, 2026, due to severe freezing rain affecting multiple regions in Quebec.
As of 5:15 p.m., reports indicated that 57,932 addresses were without power. The Lanaudière region was particularly hard hit, with 29,962 addresses affected. Other impacted areas include the Quebec City area, which saw 11,235 addresses without power, and the Outaouais region, where 9,541 addresses were affected.
In Montreal, 2,834 customers are currently without power, while the Laurentians region has reported 1,908 affected addresses. The widespread outages have prompted concern among residents and officials alike.
Weather Conditions and Alerts
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an orange alert for freezing rain, predicting an accumulation of 20 to 30 mm in some areas. This weather event is expected to have significant impacts on infrastructure, as noted by meteorologist Ross Hull, who stated, “If that does happen, then you’re looking at an impact on infrastructure. So power outages, tree limbs falling and those types of things.”
Large-scale power outages are currently impacting several regions across Quebec, highlighting the vulnerability of the electrical grid during severe weather conditions.
Official Responses and Next Steps
Hydro-Québec is actively working to restore power to affected customers, although the timeline for restoration remains uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the expected time for power restoration.
Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to prepare for potential extended outages as the weather conditions continue to evolve.
