GJOA HAVEN: Canada’s emergency management minister has approved an urgent deployment of the Canadian Rangers to Gjoa Haven, Nunavut, to assist with water distribution and logistical support amid ongoing service disruptions and severe cold conditions.
In a statement, Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski said the deployment was requested by the territorial government as the community faced challenges linked to recent power outages and impacts on its water system, prompting a local state of emergency.
The Canadian Armed Forces Reserve unit will assist residents of the remote community on King William Island, while federal and territorial agencies coordinate response efforts through Public Safety Canada.
The local energy provider, Qulliq Energy Corporation, reported repeated difficulties restoring electricity due to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds that hampered repair crews and delayed access to the area. Power has since been restored, according to the latest update.
Temperatures in the region were reported around -25°C, adding further strain to essential services.
Officials said federal, territorial, and military authorities are working together to ensure continued support for residents as conditions stabilize.
