13 Dawson City blocks hit by frozen water or sewer lines

Water Main Breaks in Dawson City, Yukon

Freezing temperatures did not stop crews in Dawson City, Yukon, from working through Friday night to repair two water main breaks that caused significant disruptions this past week.

Details of the Breaks

On Wednesday, a water main break led to the shutdown of Robert Service School. The next day, a second break flooded the Westminster Hotel, which houses the popular Dawson bar, The Pit. Several properties connected to the same water line also faced frozen pipes.

Current Status

In an update posted Sunday afternoon, city officials reported that about 80 homes still had frozen lines. Crews and contractors from the city, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation, and the Yukon government Emergency Management Organization are working to repair broken and frozen pipes and ensure water access across the city.

Work Progress

“Work crews are working their way north on 4th from King and then north on 3rd from King to thaw out the lines,” stated the city on social media. “This will take some time as each property has unique challenges.” Extensive groundwork is needed on the road near the Westminster Hotel. The city has brought in additional crew and equipment for this work.

Weather Challenges

In an update posted Saturday night, the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in government confirmed that the water main break on 4th Avenue had been repaired and the break on 3rd Avenue had been isolated. Weather conditions of -40 C posed significant challenges to infrastructure, crews, and equipment, according to the Nation.

Boil Water Orders

The First Nation reported that 13 city blocks in the affected area have units with frozen water or sewer lines. A boil water order is in effect for restaurants, daycares, community centers, hospitals, and schools. A boil water advisory remains in effect for the rest of the city.

City’s Statement

“The advisory affects water that comes from the city water plant,” said the city’s statement on social media. “We are confident there is very little risk of contamination […] but out of an abundance of caution the advisory remains in effect.”

Public Guidance

Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in urges anyone with frozen pipes not to turn off bleeder valves and to turn off water and power to their hot water tanks. The First Nation announced that the recreation center will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for anyone needing access to water, bathrooms, and showers. Water jugs can also be filled at the Dawson Water Plant and Rock Creek.

Safety Precautions

Residents are advised to be cautious when walking in affected areas due to ice buildup from flooding. They are also asked to conserve water where possible. The First Nation noted that weather is expected to improve, but there is a chance of further pipe breaks due to temperature fluctuations.