The town of Norman Wells is now under what's being called a "humanitarian state of emergency." The notice was made public following an emergency meeting of town council on Tuesday.

"Mayor and council recognize that the recent increase in fuel prices has significantly impacted the community, straining household budgets, raising transportation costs and affecting local businesses," read the release from council. 

The declaration means that the town can now ask for help from the federal government through the GNWT.

In addition to the declaration, town council has waived water and sewer fees for both residents and businesses for the next three months. As well, council has said that the local food pantry is stocked should people need help.

The high prices of fuel is due to barges that were cancelled this past summer due to low water levels on the Mackenzie River. To try and mitigate the problem, Industry, Tourism and Investment Minister Caitlin Cleveland announced the Support Funding for Businesses and Communities Impacted by Barge Cancellations program for Beaufort Delta and Sahtu businesses, as well as Indigenous and community governments.

It's meant to help with one-time payments of up to 50 per cent of the difference between the expected cost for shipping their goods on the barge and the cost of alternative shipping methods, to a maximum of $30,000 per applicant.

This story will be updated as soon as more information becomes available.