Thousands remain displaced in Winnipeg after a power outage froze Pimicikamak Cree Nation’s water system, destroying homes and infrastructure, with no return timeline set.
Manitoba First Nation Faces Ongoing Challenges After Power Outage
The chief of a Manitoba First Nation states there is no timeline for thousands of people to return home after being forced out due to a power outage over a week ago.
Manitoba Hydro fully restored power on Friday to Pimicikamak Cree Nation, located 530 kilometres north of Winnipeg. However, its water plants, pumps, tanks, and pipes froze after an outage on December 28.
Pimicikamak Cree Nation Chief David Monias reports that over 4,000 people who left the community are eager to return home. Many spent part of the holiday season in hotels across the province.
Monias explains that the frozen water system and burst pipes have destroyed homes and impacted the community’s infrastructure, putting residents’ well-being at risk.
This incident marks the fourth time in five years that residents have had to evacuate due to wildfires and extreme weather.
The chief has requested the province declare a state of emergency three times in the past week. This declaration would allow his community to receive immediate assistance.
He is also urging both the provincial and federal governments to deploy the Canadian Armed Forces for emergency logistical support, including water delivery and sanitation work.
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Power Outage | December 28 | Caused freezing of water systems |
| Power Restoration | Friday | Manitoba Hydro restored power |
| Evacuated Residents | Ongoing | Over 4,000 people displaced |
| State of Emergency Requests | Last Week | Three requests made by Chief Monias |
| Support Request | Ongoing | Call for Canadian Armed Forces assistance |
