Help is on the way from a neighbouring province following a winter storm that has knocked out power for thousands of homes and buildings in Manitoba.

SaskPower has confirmed they are supporting Manitoba Hydro through their mutual assistance agreement.

Along with materials and equipment, 23 SaskPower employees will be assisting restoration efforts in Manitoba.

In a statement from the Crown corporation, they mentioned that mutual assistance agreements are established between utilities throughout North America, usually activated from severe weather events like blizzards or hurricanes.

It has been a hectic few days in the province since the massive snow storm hit.

Almost 21,000 Manitoba homes and businesses remain without power with an unprecedented amount of damage. Manitoba Hydro chief executive officer Jay Grewal said there are more poles down than those standing.

Premier Brian Pallister declared a state of emergency over the weekend.

(Files from Canadian Press)