As a response to the estimated 5,000-litre fuel spill in Sanikiluaq on July 22, environmental experts have completed a site assessment and Sanikiluaq residents have been informed that it is safe to return home after evacuating earlier in the week.

The spill took place within the containment area of the tank farm facility. No fuel has being released outside of the controlled environment, according to the Government of Nunavut on July 23. Risk to the community of close to 1,000 people remains minimal, the GN stated. Residents and pets are still being advised to stay away from the tank farm containment site until further notice from authorities.

In addition, the Department of Environment has performed vapour testing in the community and gasoline vapour was not detected. Low levels were found at the tank farm itself, the GN stated.

Gasoline evaporates quickly, and the wind and weather conditions suggest rapid evaporation, according to the territorial government. Sanikiluaq residents are being advised that it is safe to return to their routine daily activities.