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MNRF issues watershed safety statement in effect until July 24

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Bulletin is in effect in the district until Monday, July 24, 2023.

This message will affect residents within the MNRF Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District for portions of the District of Parry  Sound, District of Muskoka and County of Haliburton within the Magnetawan River, and  Muskoka River Watersheds – other small watersheds within the region may also be experiencing higher than normal water levels and river flows for this time of year. 

Water levels and river flows are higher than normal for this time of year.  

Boaters are advised to 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. 

The 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.  

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees as lake/river levels are anticipated to remain high for the next several days. 

MNRF 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. 

Residents who 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. 

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.  Further updates will be issued as appropriate.  

TECHNICAL INFORMATION 

Description of Weather System 

Runoff from significant rainfall from July 13 through July 17, 2023, has caused lake levels and river flows to increase above normal for this time of year.  

Weather forecasts call for additional rainfall this week with a chance of thunderstorms.  

Description of Current Conditions 

Lake water levels and river flows are generally above their normal ranges for this time of year.  

The watersheds are cascading systems – each waterbody feeds into the next downstream.  Runoff from rain cascades and compounds through the entire system affecting water levels in each waterbody. It will take a number of days for the high flows to work through the entire system. Downstream water bodies may experience a delay in the full impact of the upstream inputs. 

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