Flood Outlook

The MNR is warning residents that flooding could potentially occur within specific watercourses.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) – Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Flood Warning is in effect for the Severn River, that a Flood Watch is in effect for the Black, Gull and Muskoka River Watersheds and that the Boyne, Burnt, French, Magnetawan, Pickerel, and Seguin River Watersheds are under a Flood Outlook Statement and have the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts. These statuses are in effect until Friday, April 18, 2025.

The MNR is warning residents and those visiting the area are advised to be aware of current watershed conditions. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions exist throughout the area and residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages, and exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams.

MNR advises residents to exercise extreme caution concerning ice conditions. No ice is safe ice.

MNR also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities as many are seasonally inundated with water, prone to washouts and may be impassible due to current water levels.

Residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue 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.

Technical Information

Description of Weather System

Minimum precipitation as snowfall and colder than normal temperatures over the past week has resulted in declining inflows to local watersheds.

Temperatures over the next 7 days are expected to remain seasonal with daytime highs up to +14°C and nighttime lows down to -5°C.

Description of Current Conditions

High water levels and river flows typical of spring freshet are anticipated in the areas covered by this bulletin. The melting snowpack within the watersheds is anticipated to contribute to increased runoff as a result of forecasted warmer daytime temperatures. Flooding is possible if additional rainfall is received.

Ice on local lakes and rivers is unsafe and is breaking up. High winds combined with high water levels have the potential to damage shoreline infrastructure due to moving ice.