Bracebridge – Minden – Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook is in effect in the district until Friday March 21, 2025.
The advisory from the Ministry of Natural Resources states that this will affect residents within Bracebridge, Minden, Parry Sound District for portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of Haliburton within the Black, Burnt, Gull, Severn, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River Watersheds.
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. MNR advises residents to exercise extreme caution concerning ice conditions.
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. MNR 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.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Water levels in most lakes are at or below target for this time of year. However, this weekend’s rainfall is expected to cause lake levels to rise, and river flows to increase. The current snow water equivalent is slightly above the historical average for this time of year across the district.
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement.
Significant rainfall is possible the weekend of March 15 to 16. The frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall.
What: Total rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 mm with locally higher amounts possible.
When: Saturday evening through Sunday night.
Additional information: Rain, at times heavy, is expected Saturday night into Sunday. With a risk of thunderstorms, local rainfall amounts in excess of 40 mm are possible over some areas.
