The Towns of Huntsville and Bracebridge would like to advise residents that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) has issued a Flood Watch for Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District for the Muskoka River Watershed.
The Flood Watch is in effect until Friday, April 26, 2024. Town Staff are actively monitoring water levels, will stay abreast of the evolving conditions, and will communicate with residents on an as-needed basis.
Higher water levels and flow conditions are anticipated as a result of melting snow and precipitation over the past week. With more rainfall expected in the coming week, lake water levels and river flows in certain areas could reach flood levels. Forecasts are predicting that the area will receive 10-15mm of rain on April 17, with the potential for an additional 20 to 28mm of rain over the next 7 days.
Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to varying degrees as lake/river levels start to rise in response to significant precipitation. 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 have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue to 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.
For information on what to do before, during and after a flood please visit Ontario.ca/page/floods.
