A significant water main rupture caused parts of downtown Dawson City, Yukon, to be covered in ice, resulting in the closure of the town’s school and some businesses. Additionally, some residences in the area are currently without water supply. Town authorities have urged residents to conserve water whenever possible and announced the forthcoming issuance of a boil water advisory for all Dawson households on Friday afternoon. Officials reassured that the water and wastewater facilities are operating “steadily.”
Dave Henderson, the town’s chief administrative officer, disclosed that the issue began earlier in the week with the main break affecting Robert Service School, followed by a subsequent rupture leading to localized flooding and water supply interruptions to more homes and businesses. Henderson mentioned that crews have managed to stabilize the system, pinpointed priority areas, and are diligently working on resolving the situation with a sense of confidence in their progress.
In an update later on Friday, the town announced that workers successfully stabilized the leak on 4th Ave. and restored water service to the school. Henderson also highlighted the town’s plan to identify properties experiencing frozen pipes. He advised individuals without water to turn off their hot water heaters but keep their bleeders operational to prevent pipe freezing.
Due to the water main break and ensuing issues, classes at Robert Service School were canceled on Friday, and Henderson cautioned that it is uncertain when full service restoration will be achieved. With town staff working tirelessly to rectify the damages amid challenging weather conditions, including overnight temperatures plummeting to -40°C, the situation remains arduous for both workers and equipment.
A town worker recounted working a 20-hour shift on Thursday and returning to duty at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, emphasizing the progress being made by the crews and the positive morale prevailing among them. Amid the disruption, the town announced that residents without water service can access water and shower facilities at the recreation center.
In a separate incident, Dawson City’s well-known Westminster Hotel, also referred to as The Pit, suffered flooding due to the water main break. The hotel’s owners shared on social media that substantial damage occurred, necessitating the closure of The Pit for assessment and essential repairs.
Lee Manning, owner of the Yukon Spa, reported that his business, staff quarters, and personal residence were all without water on Friday morning, leading to the closure of the spa until further notice. Manning expressed concerns for the community, particularly the elderly and those with limited mobility, who are also facing water shortages. The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government responded by offering water and shower facilities at the community hall and arranging water deliveries for citizens requiring assistance.
