Washout, flood warnings issued by MNR

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

************************ Torrential rain leads to serious washouts and flooding in Sault Ste. Marie

SAULT STE. MARIE - Over the past weekend, an area concentrated in the north and east of Sault Ste. Marie experienced torrential rainfall with local amounts as high as 150mm over a very short period.

Runoff has resulted in flooding conditions responsible for a number of road washouts.

The affected area extends from the Chippewa River north to the Montreal River.

No additional heavy rain is forecast for the next several days.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is currently evaluating the extent of the damage and which roadways have been affected.

Ministry ground crews are currently in the field assessing the damage to roadways.

A helicopter has also been commissioned to fly over affected areas and evaluate the extent of the damage.

To view an enlarged map showing the potentially affected area, click here.

With the opening of the moose hunting season on October 6, 2007, there is a possibility that hunters may not be able to exit their hunting grounds using their traditional roadways.

Emergency evacuation sites in affected areas have been identified.

To date, there has been no indication of individuals being stranded; however, numerous vehicles and trailers are reported to have been abandoned.

The ministry, along with the Sault Ste. Marie Conservative Authority, continue to monitor the water levels on area waterways.

If you would like further information on this situation, please contact the Ministry of Natural Resources Sault Ste. Marie District office at 705-949-1231.

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