For the last several months, the Solid Waste Facility in Yellowknife has been managing a subsurface landfill fire, and has shared an update on the matter.
Fires such as these are not uncommon in landfills, and usually occur in dry conditions when there is a large buildup of organic waste. As part of the standard response to this situation, the burning zone has been properly excavated, water has been applied to the area. And the Solid Waste Facility has been working with contractors and other environmental inspectors to make sure there are no additional hazards.
Fortunately, there are no known hazardous materials in the affected area, only materials used for construction. The City is advancing air quality monitoring through engagement with regulatory partners. Surface water runoff from firefighting efforts is being carefully monitored through regular assessments by landfill personnel and environmental staff.
The City is continuing to moniter the site, and is making sure that all relevant safety precautions are being followed. The Solid Waste Facility is still open to the public, though locals should be mindful of any restricted areas. The Facility may still close with very little notice should the situation change.
Additional updates on this matter will be shared by the City if circumstances call for it.
UPDATE: The City has just announced that the Solid Waste Facility will be closed on weekends throughout January as part of their efforts to manage this fire. The City states that this course of action will allow them to focus more attention on the situation. The Solid Waste Facility will still be open for its regular schedule of Tuesdays to Fridays.
