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Case 4: Resilient Recovery in Uummannaq, Greenland
Uummannaq, located in the Uummannaq Fjord System in northern Greenland, is a small, remote Arctic community with about 1,407 residents. In 2017, the area experienced a major climate-related disaster when an avalanche-induced tsunami struck, highlighting the community's vulnerability and resilience.
In June 2017, a massive 9-10 meter wave, caused by a landslide 30 km away, hit the settlements of Illorsuit and Nuugaatsiaq. This devastating event led to four deaths and nine injuries, resulting in the abandonment of these settlements. It also exposed the risk of future avalanches and tsunamis, with potential waves reaching up to 23 meters due to unstable cliff sides.
Despite Uummannaq's isolation and the challenges in receiving timely help from outside, the community has displayed remarkable resilience. Following the tsunami, the Greenlandic government, with assistance from Norway and Denmark, conducted extensive surveys to understand and mitigate future risks. They developed emergency preparedness plans, including early warning systems, evacuation protocols, and community drills. While organizing effective local exercises remains difficult due to limited resources and the harsh Arctic environment, these efforts are crucial for enhancing the community's readiness.
Uummannaq Fjord System - © Image Professionals
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One of Uummannaq's key strengths is its proactive approach to safeguarding and relocating critical infrastructure. Plans are in place to move and strengthen essential services such as energy supply, telecommunications, freshwater, and healthcare, ensuring they can withstand future tsunamis. This focus on protecting infrastructure is essential for maintaining the community's livability and resilience.
Local engagement and cultural resilience are also crucial in Uummannaq's disaster response and recovery. The community's strong sense of unity and deep local knowledge help coordinate and cooperate during emergencies, demonstrating true Arctic resilience. Investments are being made to diversify the local economy and improve living conditions, stabilizing the population and reducing the outflow of residents. Upgrades to housing, public facilities, and employment opportunities aim to strengthen the community's resilience against future disruptions.
Despite the challenges of being a remote location with limited resources, Uummannaq continues to demonstrate incredible resilience. The community's ability to adapt and respond to external shocks while maintaining its core identity and functions is a testament to its strength. Through ongoing efforts and collaborative initiatives, Uummannaq aims to enhance its resilience and set an example for other Arctic communities facing similar challenges. The lessons from the 2017 tsunami highlight the importance of continually improving resilience measures, involving the community, and adapting governance to tackle the impacts of climate change effectively. Uummannaq's journey towards resilience shows its capacity to thrive in adversity, ensuring a sustainable future for its residents.