Evidence of gas found in Iqaluit tap water

IQALUIT—The City of Iqaluit has declared a local state of emergency after finding evidence of gasoline in its tap water.

All Iqaluit residents are being told not to drink, boil or cook with the city’s water.

A statement issued by the Nunavut government said tests found evidence of petroleum hydrocarbons, or fuel chemicals, in the water. It also said newborns and infants should not be bathed in tap water.

Amy Elgersma, chief administrative officer for the city, told a council meeting Tuesday evening that the city is working to fix the issue and more tests are being done.

The city ran tests last week and had said the water was safe to drink after residents complained on social media that their tap water smelled like fuel.

Tap water can still be used for bathing, showering and laundry, Elgersma said.

The city said an emergency water source is available and residents were asked to bring their own jugs.