Watershed Conditions Statement-Flood Outlook Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement-Flood Outlook is in effect in the District until Friday, April 14, 2023.This message will effect residents within the MNRF Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District which includes the District Municipality of Muskoka, the Territorial District of Parry Sound and the County of Haliburton. Watersheds or river sections within this bulletin area include Muskoka River, Magnetawan River, Seguin River, Black River, Gull River and Burnt River.

Runoff to local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase significantly. Water levels and river flows are expected to rise with increased runoff.

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees as lake/river levels riseover the next week.
No ice is safe ice. Ice conditions on local lakes have deteriorated with warmer temperatures and changing water levels and flows.
With rain, warmer temperatures and melting snow, banks and shorelines adjacentto water bodies can be extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around waterbodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets.

MNRF also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities as they may become seasonally inundated with water, are prone to washouts and may become impassible due to localized flooding.
Residents that may be affected by high water and flow conditions should take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions and regularly check for updated messages.
The ministry is  closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

Read the full release here.