State of emergency still in effect in northeastern communities

Northern communities cope with heavy rain After a wet weekend, Kirkland Lake and Evanturel have declared a state of emergency as the area absorbs the large amount of rain.

Some communities in northeastern Ontario remain under a state of emergency due to recent rain and flooding.

Flood Map April 21 The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry's Ontario Flood Map as of 7:28 a.m. on April 21, 2024. (Supplied/Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry)

The Municipality of Charlton and Dack and the Township of Chamberlain – smaller communities two hours south of Timmins – are continuing their state of emergency.

“This allows the municipalities to acquire and deploy the necessary resources to support emergency management and protect the health and safety of its residents,” said municipal officials in a news release late Saturday.

According to Ontario’s flood map, the Far North district remains under a flood watch and the Cochrane region has a watershed statement in effect.

“We are pleased to announce that no residents are left ‘land locked,’” reads the news release.

"After a herculean effort from the combined public works of Charlton and Dack and Chamberlain along with Evanturel public works and contractors, we were able to establish a temporary access on Harman’s Road.”

Officials said the access is for residents and emergency services only – the road remains closed to the public with the closure expected to last several months.

Cabin Road in Charlton and Dack also remains closed to the public as are Aidie Creek Road and Marsh Road in Chamberlain Township.

“Residents who must use these roads to access their homes are exempt,” said the municipalities.

“However, drivers should use caution, limit trips and limit the weight of vehicles.”

Officials from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing are expected to be in the area this week to assess the damage.

In a previous interview with CTV News, Charlton and Dack Mayor Reeve Parkin the cost of repairs could exceed $500,000. Chamberlain Township staff said their municipality’s damages “could be in excess of $100,000,” in the news release.

Municipal staff in Charlton and Dack along with  are asking residents to visit the municipality’s website or Facebook page to log any concerns they have.

Officials with Charlton and Dack and Chamberlain say if issues arise, residents are encouraged to contact their municipal offices.

“We continue to encourage residents to monitor their homes and to assist neighbours if required,” said officials.

“For any emergencies call 911.”

Kirkland Lake also declared a state of emergency following the rain on April 12.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Lydia Chubak