A State of Emergency has been declared in the remote northern community of Muskrat Dam First Nation.
The community lost power for three hours early Monday morning and now the diesel power plant is down to only one of three functioning generators required to power the entire community.
Officials say the lone generator is working at overcapacity and is being pushed to its limit.
Contingency plans are being made to prepare for a potential evacuation to Sioux Lookout in case the last generator completely fails, thrusting the community of roughly 300 people into a deep freeze.
With temperatures plunging as low as -60 with the wind chill factor, spokesperson Stan Beardy says, “Over 75% of our homes depend on either electric or oil heat, so during a power failure, a majority of our community members, especially elders, families and other vulnerable people, are at risk”.
Chief Gordon Beardy adds, “We already have a lack of housing in Muskrat Dam and we cannot afford to lose a single one. With no power or heat to keep the houses and pipes warm, flooding is a risk that could damage homes beyond repair.”
Local officials are working with their Tribal Council, the Independent First Nation Alliance, the Canadian Rangers, the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, the federal government, and contractors to resolve the situation.
Chief Gordon Beardy stresses that, “while we are praying that all will go well and that an evacuation will not be necessary, we will be ready none the less.”
Power saving measures have been implemented and a rental backup generator, a new replacement generator, and a previously ordered third generator have all been expedited through the Tribal Council and have been delivered.
Beardy cautions they must remain vigilant as significant risks may occur during the 8 week installation period.
