With blowing snow and a windchill in the -40s C — expected to dip into the -50 C — the City of Iqaluit has decided to pause water delivery, waste management, garbage pick-up and snow removal until further notice.

Emergency services will still be available unless it’s unsafe or impossible to do so, but delays can be expected, the city stated in a Thursday afternoon news release.

Residents relying on trucked services are asked to reduce their water consumption and waste water output by deferring laundry and the use of dishwashers, and by taking a shower instead of a bath.

Citizens are advised to stay off the roads due to reduced visibility, high winds and unsafe road conditions.

Owners are reminded to move their vehicles off the road. Vehicles that have been abandoned on the road and impede traffic during the snow-clearing operation may be impounded under local and territorial legislation, and the owner may be subject to a fine, the city warned.