The Westminster Hotel in Dawson City had significant flooding after a water main ruptured last week. Photo Courtesy of Visit Dawson City/Facebook.
Whitehorse, YT – A water main break during extreme cold has flooded streets and damaged historic buildings in Dawson City.
City officials say the rupture occurred last week near Third and Fourth avenues as temperatures plunged to about -40 C, cutting water service to some residents and businesses.
The Westminster Hotel and Lounge, known as The Pit, said in a Facebook post Friday that it suffered significant flooding and damage and will be closed indefinitely while repairs are assessed. The bar, which opened in 1898, is a longtime community gathering place.
City public works crews have repaired the break on Fourth Avenue and isolated the damaged line on Third Avenue, and are working to thaw frozen water and sewer lines in dozens of homes, which is a process officials say could take several days.
As of Monday morning, the town remains under a boil-water advisory. The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation and the City of Dawson have asked residents to conserve water and report frozen pipes as repairs continue.
