The Town of Minto issued the following press release at about 5pm on June 23.
Floodwaters in the area of Young Street, King Street, Mill Street and George Street in Harriston continue to rise.
The headwaters of the Maitland River north of the town may soon begin to stabilize.
Residents are still evacuated and road closures will remain in place through the night.
Public Works has been monitoring water and sewer flows and operations. Residents should continue to minimize use of these utilities where possible. Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health has been monitoring the situation.
Even if floodwaters begin to peak through the night, extreme caution on all roads still be required due to the potential for undermining culverts, bridges, catch basins and roadways. Damage to roads may not be visible especially at night. Minto Fire, OPP and Public Works continue to ask the travelling public not to enter Harriston for public safety reasons, and to respect all road closures. It will be several days before all bridges and structures can be fully evaluated.
Evacuated residents attending the Palmerston Arena have been relocated, and the facility will be closed at 5pm as will the Town municipal office. After 5pm persons are to call the Harriston Fire Hall 519-338-3046 until 8pm if they are in need of assistance. After 8pm call Palmerston Fire Station 519-343-3735 and leave a message on this monitored phone.
The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority flood watch remains in place. The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority flood watch continues. Please monitor social media, websites and other forms of communication regarding the status of watercourses throughout Minto and surrounding area.
The Minto Emergency Operation Centre is convening as needed, and will meet again at 7am tomorrow. The Mayor has spoken to the Minister of Municipal Affairs Bill Mauro, and Town, County and Provincial staff has been in touch regarding access to relief programs. Information will follow when this is available.
Minto Fire will continue to contact homes and businesses in Minto that have flood damage where possible. First point of contact for residents and businesses should be with their local insurance providers.
The Town appreciates the assistance being offered from various municipal and non-profit groups
