Crews in Dawson City, Yukon, braved freezing temperatures to work overnight on Friday, repairing two water main breaks that caused disruptions throughout the week. The initial break at Robert Service School was followed by another incident at the Westminster Hotel, which also affected neighboring properties with frozen pipes. As of Sunday, approximately 80 homes were still experiencing frozen lines.
City officials, along with the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation and the Yukon government Emergency Management Organization, are collaborating to address the broken and frozen pipes, ensuring water access across the city. Efforts are focused on thawing out lines on 4th Avenue and 3rd Avenue, a process that requires careful attention due to unique challenges at each property.
Extensive work near the Westminster Hotel is underway, with additional crew and equipment deployed for the task. The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in government reported that the water main break on 4th Avenue has been fixed, while work on the 3rd Avenue break is ongoing despite facing severe weather conditions at -40°C.
The affected area, encompassing 13 city blocks, is grappling with frozen water and sewer lines, prompting a boil water order for specific establishments. The city has issued a precautionary boil water advisory for the rest of Dawson City, emphasizing minimal contamination risk but maintaining caution.
Residents are advised to exercise caution in icy areas and conserve water where possible. The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in community is offering support at the recreation center for those in need of water, bathrooms, and showers. Furthermore, water can be obtained from designated locations for residents facing water shortages.
With an expectation of improved weather conditions, there remains a possibility of additional pipe breaks due to temperature fluctuations. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepared for any further challenges.