Media Release - Significant Weather Event Remains in Effect – April 1, 2025

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON – The Significant Weather Event remains in effect in Muskoka Lakes. Operational Services crews have been working tirelessly on clean-up efforts however, several roads remain closed due to downed power lines. Some areas of the municipality are still experiencing power outages, disruptions to phone and cell service, and blocked roads.

During this time, take the opportunity to check on neighbours and vulnerable members of the community, especially those who may be experiencing prolonged power outages. If residents are in danger or in the event of an emergency, as always please call 9-1-1. The Muskoka Lakes Fire Department is out doing wellness checks for those who have been without power for more than 48 hours. If you know of someone in need of a wellness check, please call the Muskoka Lakes Fire Department.

The following warming centres which are operating on backup generator power will be open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday April 1 and Wednesday April 2:

-            Torrance Community Centre (1030 Torrance Rd., Torrance)

-            Milford Bay Community Centre (1020 Beaumaris Rd, Milford Bay)

-            Port Carling Community Centre (3 Bailey St, Unit 1, Port Carling)

-            Raymond Community Centre (2013 Highway 141, Raymond)

If you or someone you know requires overnight assistance, please call Muskoka Victim Services at 1-877-229-2217 or Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-850-5090.

Hydro One continues to work to restore power to affected areas as soon as possible, however, with several municipalities dealing with the same issue, be prepared for prolonged outages. For updates on the outages, visit the Hydro One Storm Centre.

If you see a downed powerline, always stay 10m away, and assume it is live and deadly, downed powerlines can electrify the ground around it, so you don’t have to touch the powerline to receive a deadly shock.

During and after a power outage it is important to consider the safety of your food and water to protect against any food or waterborne illnesses. Residents with private water systems are encouraged to disinfect, flush and test their water before consumption. For more information on food safety during a power outage, visit Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit.

Both the Bala and Port Carling Arenas and Libraries are without power and remain closed. Community Centre rentals are also cancelled for today and tomorrow as the Township focuses efforts on warming centres and helping those still without power.

The District Municipality of Muskoka declared a State of Emergency at 4:44 pm on Sunday March 30. This declaration along with the District’s Significant Weather Event declaration remain in effect.

Stay Updated on Road Conditions and Local Weather Alerts:

•             Visit www.municipal511.ca for Municipal roads

•             Visit www.ontario511.ca for Provincial highways (MTO)

•             Visit www.weather.gc.ca for Environment Canada’s most current weather alerts

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For more information, please contact:
Nick Colucci, Director of Public Works
ncolucci@muskokalakes.ca
(705) 765-3156 Ext. 250
www.muskokalakes.ca