The leader of Pimicikamak Cree Nation has reported significant damage to numerous residences following a prolonged power disruption that impacted a water treatment facility and plumbing systems, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 4,000 individuals from the northern Manitoba community. Residents in Pimicikamak, located around 530 kilometers north of Winnipeg, experienced issues such as burst pipes, leaks, and sewer backups following the restoration of power on Thursday. The power outage, affecting a First Nation population of approximately 7,000, occurred after a power line failure on Sunday, causing pipes to freeze in the severe cold with temperatures dropping below -20 degrees Celsius.
Chief David Monias disclosed during a press briefing on Saturday that around 200 homes had sustained damage due to leaking pipes, rendering them uninhabitable. He expressed concerns that more homes could have been affected as pipes thawed rapidly, emphasizing the need for assistance in assessing residences and community infrastructure for potential cracks and leaks. Monias stressed the importance of inspecting properties thoroughly, as hidden damage could lead to future pipe bursts.
The estimated cost of repairs is projected to be at least $44 million, with Chief Monias actively developing a recovery strategy for the community. Seeking aid from licensed professionals, including plumbers, engineers, carpenters, and electricians from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, he highlighted the shortage of skilled workers within the community. Additionally, assistance was previously requested from the Canadian Armed Forces to address the crisis.
Councillor Shirley Robinson of Pimicikamak band described the extensive damage caused by the outage, particularly impacting the water treatment plant, which is facing critical leakage issues. The aging infrastructure of the plant urgently requires repairs to prevent potential collapse. Robinson confirmed that evacuations were underway to safeguard the health and safety of residents, with approximately 140 individuals expected to be relocated on Saturday.
One of the evacuees, Jack Ross, shared his experience of being among the first to evacuate to Winnipeg, citing health concerns for his mother, who experienced breathing difficulties when her inhaler froze amid the extreme cold conditions during the power outage. He expressed worries about prolonged hotel stays due to persistent plumbing challenges, emphasizing the frustration of being away from home. Another evacuee, MaryJane Scott, expressed concerns about the extended duration of their displacement in Winnipeg, apprehensive about returning home until the plumbing issues are resolved.
