Authorities in Sudbury, Ontario, have issued a caution about the snow accumulation in the northern region of the city, which may lead to increased water levels, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency.
The announcement was made by Mayor Paul Lefebvre on Tuesday, as a preventive step that equips the city with necessary resources, such as the ability to mobilize the Red Cross if needed.
Various municipalities in northeastern Ontario have also declared a state of emergency due to the ongoing flooding situation, resulting in the closure of several secondary highways and local roads.
Ontario’s 511 reported multiple closures as of Wednesday morning, including:
- Byes Side Road, Goulais River.
- Witry Road, Goulais River.
- Bellevue Valley Road, Kirby’s Corner.
- Highway 638 between Highway 670 and Poplar Dale Road, Bruce Mines.
- Highway 810 between Whiskey Lake Road, Massey and Richie Falls, Elliot Lake.
- Highway 553 between Massicotte Road and Tertiary Road.
- Highway 607 between Highway 64 and Highway 69.
- Highway 805, River Valley.
- Highway 7044 at Highway 144.
- Highway 64 between Highway 11 and Highway 17.
- Highway 533 between Highway 656 and Highway 63.
The Greater Sudbury Police Service emphasized on social media that there are numerous private roads that have been washed out, cautioning the public against traversing these areas.
The police warned, “Private roads are not under city maintenance, and driving through flooded private roads can be extremely hazardous, especially if you are uncertain about the water depth or if your vehicle is not suitable for navigating through increased water levels.”
-
Sudbury, North Bay facing rising water levels and flooding as warnings persist in northeastern Ontario
-
Rain and heavy snow causing floods across northeastern Ontario
The city is urging people to steer clear of flooded areas to avoid exacerbating the flooding and causing additional harm to nearby properties.
The city’s message on social media stated, “Driving through standing water can create waves that worsen flooding and damage nearby properties further. It can also disrupt the ongoing flood response efforts by city personnel.”
In the City of Greater Sudbury, several roads are currently closed, including:
- Wabagishk Road (Greater Sudbury).
- Nagy Road (Nairn