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Reports of dangerous lead concentrations in the drinking water at one Yellowknife school were accurate and the GNWT is extending the "do not consume" order until the matter is resolved.

An update was released on June 25 revealing results from follow-up tests by Stantec. A final report is expected to be released in the near future.

One sample from Ecole William McDonald Middle School measured at 20.43 Âµg/L — four times the maximum safe concentration.

"While mitigation measures have been in place since late May, recent testing has confirmed elevated lead levels at Ecole William McDonald Middle School and indicated that precautionary flushing will likely be needed at Range Lake North School," said public affairs and communications manager Agata Gutkowska in a public service announcement. "Results from the random sampling showed that Range Lake North School had lead levels below Health Canada’s guideline of 5 micrograms per litre (µg/L). At Ecole William McDonald Middle School, six of the 13 outlets tested were below the guideline, five measured between 5 and 10 µg/L, and two were above 10 µg/L.

"Further work is needed to identify the source of elevated lead levels at Ecole William McDonald Middle School. Investigations will continue to determine the cause and to identify appropriate mitigation and remediation measures. The water system will remain closed for drinking until these steps are completed. Samples from Range Lake North School indicate that a flushing protocol (running water to flush any stagnant water prior to drinking) will be required."

Gutkowska said anyone concerned about lead exposure should reach out to Primary Care through the and that staff were being delegated to assist with concerns. She noted the last time municipal water in Yellowknife was tested for lead was in 2024 but there "are no concerns about lead in the municipal drinking water in Yellowknife or other municipal drinking water supplies across the Northwest Territories. "

An external review was ordered on May 31 after an initial investigation found the original tests of water samples were not conducted to standards for national best practices, nor was expertise sought even though the GNWT has water quality experts on hand.

Large volumes of lead over a long time can result in reduced cognition, increased blood pressure and renal dysfunction in adults, as well as adverse neurodevelopmental and behavioural effects in children.

"Most children who have lead in their blood do not show immediate symptoms," said Gutkowska. "However, even low levels of lead can result in subtle neurodevelopmental issues, particularly in young children. Preschool children can absorb approximately 40 per cent of the lead they happen to ingest, while adults absorb only about 10 per cent. 

"The GNWT is committed to transparency, accuracy and accountability. We understand that many families, educators and community members will have questions. While the final Stantec report is still pending, this update reflects test results that support the continuation of existing mitigation measures. We will continue to keep residents informed and will share verified updates — including the final report — as soon as they are available."