"Do not drink" advisory issued for Iqaluit over petroleum in drinking water

Residents of Iqaluit, Nunavut, are being told to avoid consuming tap water over concerns of petroleum hydrocarbons at the city’s water treatment plant.

According to the city, residents reported a “fuel odor” in the drinking water. After investigation, the city located “concentrated odors” in parts of the water treatment and distribution system.

A public health advisory was issued by the Government of Nunavut on Tuesday. People are being told to avoid consuming tap water for drinking or cooking. This also includes water that is boiled or filtered through commercially sold filters.

Iqaluit Mayor Kenny Bell reinforced the message. He told residents, “Please don’t drink the water,” adding that he would be joining in an emergency meeting that afternoon.

A PSA from the @GOVofNUNAVUT and @CityofIqaluit is coming out soon with information but in the time being please don’t drink the water #Iqaluit.

More tests happening and clear information coming. https://t.co/leAIgF8q7h

— ᒪᐃᔭ ᐱᐅᓪ Mayor Bell (@MayorofIqaluit) October 12, 2021

According to the government advisory, tap water can be used for laundry, cleaning, or showers. Pregnant women, newborns, and infants are being told to avoid baths, being bathed in the water, or using the water to mix in infant formula.

“Observations at the Iqaluit water treatment plant today found evidence of potential hydrocarbons contamination,” reads the statement. “Active investigations of City’s drinking water system and additional testing of the drinking water are ongoing.”

The Department of Health, however, says it expects to receive additional test results from out of territory labs in five business days.

Public Service Announcement
Drinking Water Update – Do Not Drink Water Quality Advisory
October 12, 2021 – Iqaluit, Nunavut pic.twitter.com/yE13Z412N6

— City of Iqaluit ᓄᓇᓕᐸᐅᔭᐃᑦ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ (@CityofIqaluit) October 12, 2021