Prince George, B.C. – The wildfires in the Cariboo have taken a toll  on B.C. Hydro’s infrastructure.

Latest assessments show wildfires have caused damage to hundreds of distribution power poles, 47 transmission structures, 114 cross arms, 181 spans of wires and 32 transformers. These numbers are expected to rise as crews gain access to evacuated areas around Williams Lake.

Fires in the Williams Lake area have caused damage to three transmission lines. Helicopter patrols took place on Sunday to begin to assess the extent of the damage and repair plans are being developed; however due to fire activity and heavy smoke, crews are awaiting clearance from fire officials to access the area and start repairs.

In the Cache Creek-Loon Lake area, crews are working to replace 12 transmission structures.

To date, BC Hydro crews have repaired 219 distribution power poles and 35 transmission structures.

BC Hydro is preparing to respond once it has been given the O.K. to start repairs.