Most still in the dark live on the Gulf Islands, hardest hit by the December 20th wind storm
BC Hydro crews restored power to an estimated 24-hundred customers Thursday, mostly on Vancouver Island, with about 16-hundred to go.
Most of those still in the dark on the Gulf Islands where community Facebook pages are sharing support, and stories of trying to heat water for baths, and meat rotting in freezers.
The Gulf Islands were hardest hit by the December 20th storm, with Salt Spring suffering the worst damage. Some hydro lines were so badly damaged in the storm they need replacing, and many roads were rendered impassable.
BC Hydro estimates residents of that island will have power restored by Sunday, and area CRD Director Gary Holman says residents are hopeful:
"That's what I've heard as well, but I'm running into folks in town describing their particular situations who are a bit skeptical of that. But here's hoping."
Holman -- says it's been tough on residents -- but they are also thankful for the efforts being made:
" I'll tell you there are a lot of people on Salt Spring who are very grateful to BC Hydro right now for the effort, the resources they've mobilized here on the island, apparently bringing people from other parts of Canada. And it's much appreciated here."
About 70 crew members will be working on the Gulf Islands today.
BC Hydro estimates power will be restored to the following areas between now and New Year's Eve:
Pender/Thetis Island: December 28Galiano/Mayne/Saturna/Bruce Peak: December 29Salt Spring Island: December 30Parker Island: December 31