State of emergency declared in Kimmirut, Nunavut, due to extended power outage

The Nunavut government has taken decisive action by declaring a state of emergency in the hamlet of Kimmirut, where residents are facing a dire situation due to an extended power outage. The outage, which has lasted for two days, has left the community without heat, running water, or refrigeration, posing a serious threat to their well-being.

According to Kimmirut search and rescue co-ordinator Rosie Akavak, the power outage began around 4 p.m. on Thursday. The Nunavut power provider, Qulliq Energy Corporation, attributed the outage to “issues with the generators” in the community.

In response to the crisis, the Nunavut government announced the state of emergency at 4 p.m. on Saturday in order to expedite the process of providing necessary support to Kimmirut. This declaration will allow for additional resources to be allocated to the hamlet to address the emergency situation.

The Kimmirut health centre is currently only open for emergencies and urgent health concerns, as the community grapples with the effects of the power outage. Despite ongoing efforts to repair the main power plant and emergency unit, the community remained without power as of 6 p.m. on Saturday.

To provide some relief to residents, a warming shelter has been set up at the local school, which is powered by a generator. Additionally, community organizations, such as the local search and rescue organization and housing authority, are stepping in to assist residents in need. The search and rescue organization has been distributing naphtha for residents to use for cooking and staying warm, while the housing authority is working to prevent pipe freezes.

The primary concern for the community at this time is the dwindling food supply, as refrigeration has been unavailable for nearly two days. Residents are worried that their existing food may have spoiled, especially frozen items. While the school has been providing meals from its breakfast program, supplies are expected to run out over the weekend.

David Joanasie, the MLA for the area, has reassured residents that the Nunavut Department of Community and Government Services is collaborating with Qulliq Energy and the hamlet to resolve the outage as quickly as possible. Efforts are being made to ensure that community members have the necessary supplies to sustain them until the power is restored.

In this time of crisis, the unity and resilience of the Kimmirut community are being put to the test. With the support of government agencies, utility providers, and local organizations, residents are working together to overcome the challenges brought on by the power outage and ensure the well-being of all members of the community.