The leader of Pimicikamak Cree Nation has reported significant damage to hundreds of homes following an extended power outage that resulted in a water treatment plant and plumbing systems being compromised. Approximately 4,000 individuals have been evacuated from the northern Manitoba First Nation as a result.
Residents in Pimicikamak, located approximately 530 kilometers north of Winnipeg, began experiencing burst pipes, leaks, and sewer backups once power was restored on Thursday. Manitoba Hydro confirmed that power had been fully restored by Friday afternoon.
The power outage occurred last Sunday night when a power line crossing the Nelson River broke, leading to frozen pipes in the extreme cold conditions with temperatures dropping below -20°C. Chief David Monias revealed that about 200 homes have been affected by leaking pipes, rendering them uninhabitable.
Monias emphasized the need for additional assistance to inspect homes and community infrastructure for hidden damage as pipes thawed. He highlighted the potential risks of undetected cracks leading to future pipe bursts.
Acknowledging the extensive repairs ahead, Monias estimated the costs to exceed $44 million and is currently devising a recovery plan for the community. Seeking expert help, he called on licensed professionals including plumbers, engineers, carpenters, and electricians from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, while also requesting aid from the Canadian Armed Forces.
Pimicikamak band Coun. Shirley Robinson expressed concerns over the severe damage caused by the outage, particularly to the aging water treatment plant which is at risk of collapsing. Evacuations were deemed necessary to safeguard the health and safety of residents, with about 140 individuals expected to be relocated on Saturday.
Among the evacuees, Jack Ross and his family were among the first to be moved to Winnipeg due to health concerns, including his mother’s asthma exacerbated by the cold conditions during the outage. Ross described the challenging living conditions they faced and expressed worries about prolonged displacement due to plumbing issues.
Another evacuee, MaryJane Scott, expressed apprehension about returning home due to the damaged pipes, anticipating a lengthy repair process. She voiced concerns about the extended stay in the city until the necessary repairs are completed.