Mattawa Mayor Dean Backer has declared a local state of emergency after being advised that the Otto Holden Dam will be releasing two feet of water over the next 24 hours.
At this time Mattawan Street from Main to Sid Turcotte Park Road and Timmins Street have been closed.
Town officials are advising that property owners in low lying areas adjacent to the Mattawa and Ottawa Rivers consider and be prepared for the possible evacuation of their residences due to increasing water levels.
Any resident in need of sandbag support, should call the municipal office at 705-744-5611.
Roadways marked as closed are not to be passed as the integrity and safety of the road cannot be guaranteed and may pose a hazard, says a news release from the town.
Sandbags are to be used to protect homes and accommodations only.
"The dam did not breach! Unfortunately, OPG had to spill water due to capacity," said Mayor Dean Backer in a message to the people of Mattawa. "The Town has declared a state of emergency in order to receive the help we need in order to get houses and businesses at risk! Working closely with all emergency services."
Town staff will continue to communicate all information by means of media releases to radio stations and local newspapers, social media and the municipal website.
OPP say at this time Highway 17 and Highway 533 are open but some in town roads are closed. "Use caution when travelling on roads and stay off closed roads," warns the police.
