A transformer fire caused a loud explosion and power outages across parts of Lloydminster late overnight, according to city officials.
Residents began reporting sounds of an explosion and flickering power around midnight, with some describing the sound as an explosion that shook their homes.
“It made the house shake and the power go out. Looked like a transformer going off,” said Natasha McCallum-Kinequon.
Confirmed transformer fire
In a statement to The Border Pulse, City of Lloydminster communications confirmed Lloydminster Fire Rescue responded to a transformer fire involving ATCO infrastructure.
“An ATCO transformer caught fire, resulting in an explosion that was visible to nearby residents,” the city said.
Lloydminster Fire Rescue crews secured the area and remained on scene until ATCO arrived.
“Upon arrival, the scene was turned over to ATCO, and LFR was released,” the statement said.
No cause of the transformer explosion has been provided.
Widespread outages reported
Residents across multiple neighbourhoods reported repeated power disruptions following the sound.
“My power keeps flickering,” one resident wrote.
“Power’s gone out three times here,” another added.
Some reported outages without hearing the explosion itself.
“Power has gone out three times for us, didn’t hear an explosion though,” one resident said.
Internet disruptions were also noted in some areas.
“Power’s fine but the internet shut off a couple times,” another resident said.
Emergency response observed
Several residents reported seeing emergency crews and lights in the area shortly after the incident, including near 33 Street and 50 Avenue.
Others described what they were told on scene.
“A fireman told me a fuse went out and another one was on fire on the power pole,” one resident said.
While the exact cause remains under investigation, officials have not reported any injuries related to the incident.
“It felt like an explosion to me. It scared me and my dog,” one resident said.
The Border Pulse will provide updates if ATCO releases additional details.
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