Families stranded by flooding near Bruce Mines

Provincial officials are refusing to use the word "stranded" to describe a situation on Highway 670 north of Bruce Mines in which residents of between 20 and 25 homes are unable to leave because they're between two closed bridges.

Speaking to reporters at a teleconference this afternoon, Ministry of Natural Resources officials said that the affected residents are used to this situation occurring in cycles and have chosen to remain in their homes.

The Ministry of Transportation is keeping in close contact with the families to determine whether special assistance is needed.

The situation is not considered an emergency and no one is currently in jeopardy of losing their homes.

If a medical or other emergency arises, a helicopter or search and rescue personnel could be used to remove people from the situation.

The following news release was issued today by the Ontario Provincial Police:

************************* Highway 670 remains closed

GALBRAITH TWP, ON - Highway 670 north of Bruce Mines, Ontario remains closed due to flooding.

The bridge that has been closed is:

Wannamaker Bridge #2 which is located approximately seven kilometers from the junction of Highway 638.

Once the flooding subsides at the bridges the MTO will be checking for any structural damage before the bridges are opened.

The OPP wants to remind motorists to stay off the bridges until they have been officially opened up by the MTO.

There is no alternate route through this area.

For the most up-to-date information on the closure, contact the MTO Road Information Line at 1-800-268-4686, or check online. .