STATE OF EMERGENCY IN WAWA – OPP Update 4

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STATE OF EMERGENCY IN WAWA – OPP Update 4

Written by Superior East OPP on 28 October 2012

WAWA, ON – The Ontario Provincial Police Superior East Wawa Detachment advise that Highway 17 at Wawa continues to be closed both north bound and south bound. The highway has been closed since October 25, 2012 as a result of high levels of water that caused the road to erode away in several locations.

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) advises that work on Highway 17 both the north and south from Wawa is progressing very well. Highway 17 south bound is expected to reopen later today. There will be two lanes open with gravel sections. The OPP and MTO warn the motorists to drive with extreme caution in these areas. A speed reduction will be in effect with plenty of signage to warn the public of the gravel areas. A media release will be sent out when Highway 17 south bound is reopened to advise the public.

MTO advises that Highway 17 north bound road work is progressing well but there is no set date for its reopening.

Work continues on the road into the Michipicoten First Nation. Phase One Evacuation was completed on October 27 and there were 20 community members removed by Wilderness Helicopters. The Municipality’s Public Works Department reports that work on the road into the First Nation Community is progressing well. More equipment is expected to arrive and this will assist with getting one lane open into the community sooner.

Phone lines and 911 services in Dubreuilville, Hawk Junction and Missinabie continue to not be available.

The OPP has been a participating member of the Community Control Group. This group is comprised of various agencies that are all working to resolve the State of Emergency as soon as possible. This group is led by the Municipality of Wawa and has been meeting twice daily. All involved agencies have been working co-operatively to ensure that public safety is the priority.