Many establishments and services in Lunenburg are shuttered on Friday due to the aftermath of a dam breach incident. The breach occurred when the newly constructed Dares Lake dam developed a crack on Wednesday afternoon, leading to water flooding the structure housing the pumps for the water treatment plant.
Given the current situation, the town is utilizing its reserves as the water system is being restored. Residents and businesses are advised to limit water usage to essential needs like drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Lunenburg Mayor Jamie Myra informed CBC’s Information Morning that all facilities dependent on municipal water, including restaurants, schools, daycares, and industries, have ceased operations.
The breach involved one side of the dam cracking and releasing water around 1 p.m., followed by the same occurrence on the other side a few hours later. To contain the situation, crews swiftly erected a berm around the damaged dam in an effort to prevent further water leakage.
Efforts were made to divert water from the submerged pump building by creating trenches. Upon inspection, it was found that two out of the three pumps were operational, albeit not at full capacity, while the third pump was inactive. The town is now in search of a replacement pump to address the issue.
Mayor Myra expressed hope for minimal rainfall on Friday and during the weekend to aid in managing the high water levels. He mentioned the possibility of rescinding the conservation directive promptly if all goes well, though the timeline might extend to the weekend if complications arise.
Despite the challenges, the community’s response has been positive, with residents and business owners showing understanding and neighboring municipalities offering support. Myra commended the collective effort and solidarity displayed in the face of the crisis.
Regarding the dam breakdown, Myra highlighted that the structure was relatively new, having been constructed within the past six to nine months with substantial government funding to prevent such incidents. While the cause of the breach will be investigated later, the immediate priority remains ensuring the delivery of safe drinking water to residents and businesses.
The breach occurred on a sunny day with normal conditions, rather than during a storm. Myra expressed disappointment and surprise at the unforeseen occurrence, emphasizing the paramount importance of water safety over determining the cause of the breach at this stage.