The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, is advising residents that the following bulletins are in effect until Friday, March 27, 2026:
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook Bulletin for the Severn River Watershed including Sparrow Lake within the district
This bulletin applies to portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of Haliburton, including the Black, Boyne, Burnt, Gull, Pickerel, Seguin, Severn, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River Watersheds.
Residents and visitors are advised to use extreme caution around waterbodies as water levels and river flows may increase due to forecast rainfall and melting snow. Lower-lying and flood-prone areas may experience localized impacts.
Summary:
- Higher-than-normal flows are occurring due to recent rainfall and snowmelt
- Slippery stream banks and fast flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around all water bodies.
- 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.
- Forecasts for this week show daytime highs of -4°C to +3°C, and overnight lows are forecasted between -18°C and -1°C. Forecasts are also anticipating that the area will receive up to 15cm of snow.
- River flows in many areas of the district are at elevated levels. Lake water levels in most areas are stabilizing and beginning to decrease with near normal seasonal temperatures forecasted.
The MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.