Home / Disasters and Accidents / Kugaaruk Water Crisis Ends: State of Emergency Lifted
Kugaaruk Water Crisis Ends: State of Emergency Lifted
13 Dec
Summary
- Kugaaruk's six-day state of emergency has concluded.
- Sea water contamination forced the water treatment plant shutdown.
- Bottled water distribution continues until tap water is safe.
The state of emergency in Kugaaruk, Nunavut, has been lifted after six days, bringing relief to the community of approximately 1,200 residents. The emergency was declared after sea water contaminated the local water treatment plant, halting the production of clean water.
Although the state of emergency has concluded, residents are still advised not to drink the tap water. Bottled water will continue to be distributed at the fire hall until the 'do not consume' advisory is rescinded. This advisory affects all uses of water, including for cooking, brushing teeth, and preparing infant formula, even if boiled.
The hamlet has been working to flush salt from the treatment plant, and water testing is ongoing. Schools and several offices have since reopened, indicating a gradual return to normalcy for Kugaaruk.
