Flood Outlook Lifted for Muskoka; Water Safety Bulletin Remains in Effect (until June 5)

- May 14, 2026

Watershed & Environment

Information provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

(Updated May 30, 2026) MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, May 14, 2026 – The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound (BMPS) District is advising area residents and visitors that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety is in effect for the BMPS District.

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.
It is anticipated that water levels on the Severn River, French River, and portions of the Pickerel River will remain elevated.
Water levels and river flows in many locations are at near normal conditions, though some areas remain elevated.
The 7-day weather forecast is predicting daytime highs of 19°C to 25°C and overnight lows between 7°C and 13°C with up to 5 mm of rainfall.

These messages will remain in effect until Friday, June 5, 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

Sandbag Disposal Locations (Free)

Rosewarne Landfill (1062 Rosewarne Dr, Bracebridge)
Or contact the Township of Muskoka Lakes for alternative drop-off areas in Muskoka Lakes

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:

Township Flood Information Webpage: Flood Information
Flood debris disposal and relief programs via District of Muskoka: Spring Flooding - 2026
District Municipality of Muskoka provides near real-time water level observations for the main managed lakes: Floodplain Mapping
Muskoka Water Web provides detailed information on the Muskoka River Water Management Plan (MRWMP) and how to check water levels on your lake - http://www.muskokawaterweb.ca/mnr-resources/water-management/checking-levels
Environment Canada Real-Time Hydrological stations provide up-to-date information on water levels: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/search/real_time_e.html and bulletins: www.weather.gc.ca
Flood Forecasting and Warning Program: https://www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/#ontarioFloodMap and https://www.ontario.ca/page/floods

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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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