Extended power outages leave Kimmirut, Nunavut dangerously low on food

An extended power outage in Kimmirut, Nunavut has left the hamlet dangerously low on food.

The community has been without power for close to two days — leaving residents and stores without heat, running water or refrigeration.

The outages began around 4 p.m. on Thursday, according to Kimmirut search and rescue co-ordinator Rosie Akavak.

Nunavut power provider Qulliq Energy Corporation gave it first update on the outage about 40 minutes later, saying the community-wide outage was caused by "issues with the generators."

In social media updates on Sunday morning, the corporation said crews are on the ground in the community and working to resolve the issue. 

The local school, which has power through a generator, has been open as a warming shelter during the outage. 

Akavak said the community's biggest concern is that food may run out. After over a day without any refrigeration, residents are concerned that the existing food supply may have gone bad, especially frozen food.

The school has been offering meals with food intended for its breakfast program, but Akavak said that food supply is expected to run out this weekend.

David Johanasie, the MLA for the area which includes Kimmirut, said in a social media announcement that the Nunavut Department of Community and Government services is working with Qulliq Energy and the hamlet to ensure that the outage is resolved as soon as possible, and community members have the necessary supplies until that happens.