A prolonged power outage in Kimmirut, Nunavut, has left the hamlet dangerously short of food.

The community has been without power for nearly two days, leaving residents and businesses without heat, running water or refrigeration.

The outages began around 4 p.m. Thursday, according to Kimmirut search and rescue coordinator Rosie Akavak.

Nunavut’s electricity provider, Qulliq Energy Corporation, provided an update on the outage about 40 minutes later, saying the community-wide outage was caused by “issues with generators.”

In social media updates Sunday morning, the company said crews were on the ground in the community working to resolve the issue.

The local school, powered by a generator, was opened as a warming shelter during the outage.

Akavak said the community’s biggest concern is that food could run out. After more than a day without any refrigeration, residents fear the existing food supply has deteriorated, particularly frozen foods.

The school is offering meals with food intended for its breakfast program, but Akavak said food supplies are expected to run out this weekend.

David Johanasie, MLA for the region that includes Kimmirut, said in a social media announcement that the Nunavut Department of Community and Government Services is working with Qulliq Energy and the hamlet to ensure the outage is resolved as quickly as possible. and that community members have the necessary supplies while they wait for this to happen.