Crews working in Nunavut hamlet to restore power that has been out since Thursday – Brandon Sun

KIMMIRUT, Nunavut – The Nunavut government has declared a state of emergency in Kimmirut following a power outage in the Baffin Island hamlet two days ago.

Community and Government Services Minister David Joanasie said in a press release that the region’s emergency management staff were working closely with local authorities and other regional partners to assist the community.

Qulliq Energy Corporation reported a complete loss of power in the community on Thursday, with only limited backup power generation available, the statement said.

A warming center was established at Qaqqalik School.

Qulliq Energy Company is posting updates about the outage on Facebook; Many of the posts note the difficulties of bringing in workers for repairs.

Environment Canada is forecasting a low temperature of -9 C on Saturday night and a high of -5 C on Sunday.

“We are committed to finding solutions to ensure the safety and security of everyone affected,” Joanasie said in a government news release.

Joanasie also said in a Facebook post that the government has staff in the hamlet to keep generators running in buildings including the school, water treatment plant, health center and airport.

A boil water advisory was issued for Kimmirut on Saturday, warning residents about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning when using gas stoves, camping stoves or grills for indoor heating.

An update posted on Facebook by Qulliq Energy Corporation late Saturday said there was a problem with the distribution transformer outside the hamlet’s generating facility. He said technicians were making repairs to the emergency unit, but it was unlikely full power would be restored that night.

A charter flight from Iqaluit on Sunday morning will bring additional line crew, tools and materials for further inspection and repairs, the post said.

In an earlier post, the utility company warned customers to make sure stove tops, ranges and ovens are turned off and no items are left inside to prevent fires when power is restored.

The state of emergency declared on Saturday will be valid for 14 days.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 2, 2024.