June 26, 2016
Province Advises Cottagers Remain On Voluntary Evacuation for Areas of the Whiteshell Following Heavy Rains
Manitoba Sustainable Development advises a voluntary evacuation continues in areas of the Whiteshell following heavy rains and resulting high water, which has caused deteriorating road conditions.
A number of roads remain washed out leaving cottage owners stranded with only boat access until road repairs can be undertaken. Almost all cottagers have boat access to main boat launches and highway access.
Officials are waiting for the water to recede in many areas before repairs can begin. It is too early to provide cost estimates until the full extent of the damage is revealed by receding water.
The province has extended call in hours for an information line for Whiteshell residents and cottage owners only until 8 p.m. today at 1-204-349-2201.
The Mantario Trail remains impassable and the McGillivray Falls trail has major washouts. Other trails in the area are yet to be assessed.
A number of regional roads in West Hawk, Falcon Lake and the Whiteshell remain flooded or damaged:
• PR 312 will be closed at Caddy Lake due to water on the road;
• PR 307 North Whiteshell is washed out near CP tracks between Brereton Lake and Rennie, with motorists advised to travel via Seven Sisters;
• Falcon Lake underpass is completely impassable, and at this time traffic is being directed to use the West Hawk Lake underpass.
Manitoba Hydro crews are working to restore power throughout the storm area.
Anyone who has experienced damage is encouraged to contact their insurance providers to determine their coverage.
For the most recent information on road conditions or highway safety, visit www.manitoba511.ca, call 511 or follow the Twitter account for road closures at www.twitter.com/MBGovRoads.
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