A Water Conditions Safety Statement is in effect for our region until Thursday, July 15th.
Specifically, it affects residents in Muskoka, Parry Sound and the northwest portion of Haliburton.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (NDMNRF) – Parry Sound District reports that the recent increase in water levels and flows are anticipated to remain over the next week as runoff from recent rain moves through the river systems.
With recent rainfall, the banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies can be extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around water bodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets. Rivers are flowing much faster than usual for this time of year and may be hazardous for recreational activities. Lake levels are currently higher than usual for this time of year possibly causing some challenges for water activities.
NDMNRF also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities as they may become inundated with water, are prone to washouts and may become impassible due to localized flooding.
Description of Weather System
Environment Canada has issued a Rainfall Warning effective today that covers most areas within Muskoka and Parry Sound. The rainfall warning calls for up to 50mm of rain today with another 25 mm forecasted within the next 7 days.
Daytime temperatures are below seasonal today and tomorrow with more seasonal temperatures forecasted beginning Saturday, July 10th.
Description of Current Conditions.
Water levels for most lakes are at or above their upper operating range for this time of year. River flows are extremely high for this time of year.
The local watersheds have received upwards of 200 mm of rain over the past two weeks– this is more than the average amount of precipitation the watersheds normally receive through the months of June and July combined. This has caused saturated watershed conditions and significant runoff. Additional rainfall forecasted for today and within the next 7-days is likely to cause lake levels and river flows to rise further.
Minor flooding within flood-prone areas is possible.