Kirkland Lake state of emergency, flooding update

The state of emergency remains in effect in Kirkland Lake following the heavy rainfall in the region on Friday, which caused the overflow of Murdoch Creek and Rand Creek along with a surcharge of the town’s sanitary system which prompted the emergency declaration.

A viewer photo submitted on April 12, 2024 showing the high water levels and flooding in Kirkland Lake, Ont. (Supplied/Cherie Duffield)

“Municipal staff worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents in affected areas,” said town officials in an update Sunday afternoon.

“They also responded promptly to deteriorating road conditions exacerbated by the snowfall on Saturday night.”

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Officials said the state of emergency will continue primarily due to the sanitary system surcharging directly at the wastewater treatment plant.

“Despite the anticipation of relatively small amounts of additional rainfall today, municipal staff remain vigilant in monitoring road conditions and homeowner situations,” reads the update.

“At present, no further concerns are anticipated.”

Several other nearby municipalities have also declared a state of emergency.

The Town of Kirkland Lake is continuing to provide sandbags to those affected by the flooding who require them – they can be picked up at 105 Government Road West.

“The flooding event can make local water bodies dangerous,” said the town on social media.

“Please exercise extreme caution when near creeks, rivers and lakes.”

Local roads re-opened

Officials said that all municipal roads – except Allen Avenue south of Fifth Street – have reopened and it is expected the last road will reopen by 7 a.m. on Monday.

Coming together

“Throughout this challenging period, the collaborative efforts of neighbors, volunteers, and businesses have greatly complemented the work of municipal staff and emergency responders,” said the town Sunday.

“This collective endeavor significantly contributed to managing the situation and providing assistance where needed.”

The town advised that throughout Friday into Saturday affected residents received support from the fire department, which ensured those who needed assistance were accommodated.

Town Mayor Stacy Wright told CTV News in an interview earlier this weekend that fire officials were going door-to-door to check on people in the affected area.

An undated photo of Kirkland Lake Mayor Stacy Wright. (Supplied/Town of Kirkland Lake)

Municipal Services

Residents may experience irregular or temporary service disruption at the municipal level in the coming week as town staff who were responding to flooding emergencies over the weekend take an opportunity to re-energize – including those who were or continue to be impacted by the flooding themselves.

“Town council, administration and staff thank the public for their patience during this period of inconvenience,” said town officials.

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The process for disposal of household debris from the flood event will be communicated on Monday, said the town.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Ian Campbell

A map of the flooding in the Town of Kirkland Lake as of April 12, 2024. (Supplied/Town of Kirkland Lake)