Flood Outlook Lifted for Muskoka; Water Safety Bulletin in Effect (until May 22)

- May 14, 2026

Information provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, May 14, 2026 – The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District is advising area residents and visitors that: 

  • Flood Warning is in effect for the French River and Pickerel River
  • Flood Watch is in effect for the Severn River, including Sparrow Lake
  • Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety is in effect for the remainder of the MNR Bracebridge–Minden–Parry Sound District, which includes the District of Muskoka. 

Summary:

  • Definition of a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: 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.
  • Flows on the Indian River between Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka are expected to decrease over the next week.
  • The 7-day weather forecast is predicting daytime highs of 13°C to 26°C and overnight lows between 6°C and 17°C with up to 12 mm of rainfall. Some areas remain vulnerable to additional impacts should significant rainfall occur.

These messages will remain in effect until Friday May 22, 2026 at 11:59pm

Be advised:

  • Residents, visitors, and boaters are advised to use extreme caution near dams, as recent high-water levels may have affected safety booms, signage, barriers, and other safety features.
  • Residents that 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.
  • Slippery stream banks and fast flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around all water bodies.
  • Use extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities, as many may have been damaged by seasonal conditions, including washouts. These roads may be impassable.
  • Keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages on our website and social media, exercise caution near fast moving rivers and streams and maintain close supervision of children and pets.

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

Flood Safety & Preparedness

  • Stay Informed: Visit our Flood Information webpage for current advisories and flood resources, monitor local weather forecasts, follow us on social media or call the Township office directly at 705-765-3156 for the latest updates. 
  • Keep Away From Flooded Areas: Never walk or drive through flooded roads or fast-moving water. Even shallow water can be dangerous and unpredictable.
  • Protect Your Property: Move valuables, fuel tanks, and equipment to higher ground. Secure docks, boats, and loose shoreline items that could float away.
  • Around Water: Keep children and pets away from flooded shorelines, rivers, culverts, dams, and spillways. Cold, fast-moving water is extremely hazardous.
  • Be Ready to Act: Follow instructions from Township officials and be prepared to leave the area if evacuation is recommended. Have a 72-hour emergency kit and plan ready to go on short notice. Learn more about Emergency Preparedness.

Learn more about what you should do before, during and after a flood, and where to get current flood information: Flood Information

Sandbags Available

Self-serve sandbags are available at Bala Sports Park (3224 Muskoka Rd. 169) and Hanna Park (40 Bailey St.)

Sandbag Disposal Locations (Free)

  • Hanna Park (40 Bailey St., Port Carling)
  • Bala Sports Park (3224 Muskoka Rd. 169, Bala)
  • Rosewarne Landfill (1062 Rosewarne Dr, Bracebridge)

Important Note: If dropping off at Hanna Park or Bala Sports Park, do not dump sand back into the existing pile. Place the filled sandbags next to the existing pile. For already empty sandbags, a designated bin will be on-site. Please do not use this bin for household garbage or other debris.

Flood Debris & Garbage

In the Township of Muskoka Lakes, garbage and recycling is managed by the District of Muskoka.

Items that don’t follow regular collection rules (i.e. bag limits and the Clear Bag Program) will not be picked up at the curb.

To support residents impacted by the April 2026 flooding event, the District has launched temporary fee relief programs for eligible flood-damaged residential waste. 

For more information on flood debris disposal and relief programs, click the button below. 

District of Muskoka | Flood Debris

For more information:

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For more information on this advisory, please contact: 
Water Management Team, Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District Office
705-645-8747
watermanagement.psdistrict@ontario.ca 

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

For general, media or accessibility inquires, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca

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Contact Us

Township of Muskoka Lakes
1 Bailey St., P.O. Box 129,
Port Carling, ON, P0B 1J0
T: 705-765-3156 F: 705-765-6755

Office Hours: 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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