The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Flood Warning is in effect in the district until Friday, April 28, 2023. This message will affect residents within the MNRF Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District for portions of the District Municipality of Muskoka. River Sections included in this Flood Watch are: North Branch Muskoka River from Huntsville to Bracebridge, South Branch Muskoka River from Lake of Bays to Bracebridge and the Bala Reach and Moon River.
River flows will remain above flood thresholds over the next several days.
Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas are being impacted to various degrees.
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.
With rain, warmer temperatures and melting snow, banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies can be extremely slippery and unstable. 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 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.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Description of Weather System
Environment Canada has issued a widespread Special Weather Statement for the area for rainfall of 15-30 mm by April 23.
Description of Current Conditions
Lake water levels are stabilizing or decreasing on local lakes, but river flows continue to remain high.
River flows are expected to remain high for the next several days.
MNRF is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
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