The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has extended the flood warning for the south branch of the Muskoka River until Monday, May 8 and a has extended a water safety rating for the north branch of the Muskoka River and Black River until Friday, May 12.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Warning
A flood warning indicates that flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities. Local river sections included in the flood warning include the:
- South branch of the Muskoka River from Lake of Bays to Bracebridge
River flows will remain near or above flood thresholds over the weekend and lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas are being impacted to various degrees. Please be cautious if traveling on local waterways. Boat traffic during high water conditions can cause damage to shorelines and to shoreline property with vessel wakes.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety
A Water Safety rating indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected. Local river sections included in this Water Safety rating include:
- North branch of the Muskoka River; and
- Black River near Vankoughnet.
Runoff to local lakes and rivers has increased with recent rainfall. Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may still be impacted to various degrees as lake/river levels remain close to their normal springtime highs.
Sandbags and any other flood debris can be disposed of at the Rosewarne Transfer Station at 1062 Rosewarne Drive. For more information on acceptable waste and fees, visit https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/garbage-and-recycling/drop-off-locations-and-landfill.aspx
Parks and Trails
Public Works crews have cleaned up portions of parks along the Muskoka River. A portion of the Historic Walkway between Kelvin Grove Park and 35 Wharf Road remains closed due to flooding.
Safety First
Flood waters can by contaminated with bacteria and chemicals. If private wells are affected by flooding, residents are advised to stop using them immediately and use an alternative water supply such as commercially bottled water for ALL water use. This includes for drinking, brushing teeth, preparing food including baby food and infant formula, cleaning, bathing, and hand washing.
Water Testing Kits are available at the Gravenhurst Office of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit at 5 Pineridge Gate. Visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website for more information on drinking water safety and flooding.
There continues to be a significant amount of debris in the waterways. Boaters are advised to use extreme caution and to be mindful of wakes that may affect flooded properties.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit bracebridge.ca/emergencypreparedness.
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