As early as March, Quebec entered a period of warm weather, with melting snow, violent winds and storms that weakened electrical infrastructures. Many people think that breakdowns only happen in winter, but they are very common in spring.

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Why does spring bring so many power outages?

Think of the heavy snow on the branches all winter long. Seasonal temperatures alternating between snowmelt, rain and cold days, all combined with gusty winds... This can only weaken the trees. This is why frequent breakdowns should be expected in the spring.

“Outages are caused by vegetation, which is weakened by heavy snow and gusts,” says Hydro-Québec in a publication on X. The vegetation then comes into contact with the distribution network.

Deadlines are very rarely respected or even announced.

Unsuspected dangers

In spring, power outages aren't just caused by branches falling on electrical wires. Other factors, which are often underestimated, contribute to service interruptions.

Floods and power outages‍

With the melting of snow and abundant precipitation, water-saturated soils cause sudden floods, especially in areas bordering rivers. Water can seep into electrical infrastructures, cause short circuits, and damage distribution facilities. A failure under these conditions can be prolonged, as repairs usually require stabilization of the situation before intervening.

High winds and network fragility‍

Spring gusts, which are frequently underestimated, are responsible for a large part of the outages. After a harsh winter, trees weakened by snow and frost become vulnerable to high winds. Result? Branches or even entire trunks fall on electrical wires, causing cuts that are sometimes extensive and difficult to repair.

Network overload: a hidden problem‍

With the arrival of warmer temperatures, many homes are beginning to use energy-intensive appliances like sump pumps, air conditioners, and intermittent heating systems simultaneously. This increased demand can weaken the electrical network, especially if localized outages put additional pressure on the remaining infrastructures.

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How to properly prepare

We always rely on good preparation... So, in the face of spring breakdowns, an effective preparation plan is essential.

Food: make smart reservations‍

A prolonged outage can quickly compromise your refrigerated and frozen foods. Make sure you have:

• Preserves and non-perishable foods in stock.
• A cooler and ice packs in case of a prolonged outage.
• A thermometer to check the temperature of food after a failure.

Or, make sure you have a standby generator, you won't even have to think about it anymore.

Heating and hot water‍

Spring in Quebec can still bring cold nights. If you depend on an electric heating system, it is essential to provide for:

• A safe auxiliary heating source (wood stove, propane heater with CO2 detector).
• Extra blankets and warm clothes within easy reach.
• An emergency plan if you have pipes that are at risk of freezing.

Sensitive devices: protect your equipment‍

Electrical surges after an outage can damage electronic devices. Here's how to protect yourself:

• Use surge bars for sensitive equipment (computer, modem, household appliances).
• Charge your portable batteries and phones before a storm is forecast.
• Consider a backup battery for your modem and Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected even in the event of a failure.

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Comparing solutions for spring power outages

When a failure occurs, several solutions exist to maintain electricity. Here is a comparison of the main options:

Verdict? If you are looking for a turnkey solution that offers you a true energy autonomy, the automatic generator is the best option. For occasional needs, a portable generator may suffice, as long as you are well-prepared. Back-up batteries are handy for small devices, but are no substitute for true emergency power.

Making the right choice before the next outage

Spring breakdowns can be unpredictable, but your preparation shouldn't be. Whether you live in the city or in a region, securing your home with a generator saves you a lot of hassle.

Before the next storm hits, ask yourself these questions:

• How long can I go without electricity?
• Do I have essential equipment that requires constant power (heating, sump pump, medical devices)?
• What is the best solution for my lifestyle and my budget?

By making the right decisions now, you avoid unpleasant surprises later.