Millions in repairs for Ontario roads washed out following July downpour

A storm earlier this month is costing Almaguin municipalities millions in combined costs to repair washed-out roads.

According to a civilian weather monitoring station in Sundridge, over 151 millimetres of rain fell over 18 hours on July 6, resulting in significant damage on roads throughout Almaguin. As of July 22, area roads were still under maintenance.

In Magnetawan Township, the estimated repair costs for roads impacted by the rainfall are between $1 million and $3 million. Staff told council at the July 16 meeting they would be looking to the province to help cover repair costs.

The townships of Strong, Armour, Ryerson, Joly and villages of South River and Sundridge also reported washouts and flooding.

As of July 17, Armour’s preliminary damage estimates fell within the $150,000 to $200,000 range.

Ryerson said it was still tallying the damages and associated costs on July 17.

Why innovative customer experience will define the future of personal auto insurance Image

Insights Paid Content

Why innovative customer experience will define the future of personal auto insurance

Technology is helping insurers reimagine how they support personal auto customers — and it starts the moment a collision is reported, say experts at Accident Support Services International.

By 

Sponsor Image

Joly reported significant damage due to washouts, with Mayor Chris Nicholson telling Almaguin News there are 12-foot wide holes on Kent’s Mill Road. As of July 17, the township was still assessing the damage, but noted it would be seeking upper tier government support for repair costs — while still waiting for funding from the washouts in 2024.

Strong had 31 roads impacted by washouts and is estimating $1 million to $2 million in repairs.

The South River said it had no major damage and estimates its associated repairs to be within the couple thousand range, according to Clerk Don McArthur.

Sundridge did not respond by time of publication. 

When Almaguin News spoke with townships, all had resounding praise for municipal roads staff.

In an email, Dave Gray, chief administrative officer for Armour, said council was extremely impressed and grateful for the efforts of the roads and office staff in managing the response to the washouts. 

Those who live in an affected area are asked to monitor the local municipality’s communication channels for continued updates.