Flood Watch

MNRF is warning residents that the potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR)– Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Flood Watch bulletin is in effect for all watersheds the District until Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

The Flood Watch will affect residents within the MNR Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, which includes portions of the District Municipality of Muskoka, the Territorial District of Parry Sound and the County of Haliburton.

Residents should expect water levels to increase: the potential for flooding exists.

Residents and those visiting the area are advised to be aware of current watershed conditions. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions may develop 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.

Runoff to local lakes and rivers has increased significantly with recent rainfall, snow melt and warm weather.

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

Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around waterbodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets.

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.

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees.

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

Technical Information

Description of Weather System

Precipitation amounts of up to 70mm are forecast between March 27-31. Temperatures over the next 7 days are expected to remain seasonal with daytime highs up to +6°C and nighttime lows down to -10°C.

Description of Current Conditions

Lake water levels and river flows remain elevated due to recent precipitation and runoff. The forecasted precipitation over the March 27-31 weekend is anticipated to further increase these levels. Additionally, the remaining snowpack within the watershed is likely to contribute to increased runoff as a result of the precipitation.