Flood Warning in Effect for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District (until April 22, 2026)

- Apr 13, 2026

Information provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, April 13, 2026 – The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, is advising residents of a Flood Warning that is in effect until Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

This statement applies to portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of Haliburton, including the Black, Boyne, Burnt, Gull, Pickerel, Seguin, Severn, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River Watersheds.

Locations of particular concern due to the potential for heightened impacts include:

  • Gull River in the Town of Minden
  • Moon River including the Bala Reach

Runoff into local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase with forecasted rainfall and warmer temperatures resulting in elevated lake water levels and river flows. Increased water levels and precipitation may erode the ice and create floating ice hazards that could damage waterfront infrastructure.

Residents and visitors are advised to use extreme caution around waterbodies and forest access roads as water levels and river flows may increase due to recent rainfall and melting snow.

Summary:

  • Higher-than-normal flows are occurring due to recent rainfall and snowmelt.
  • Slippery stream banks and fast flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around all water bodies.
  • Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees as runoff from rainfall and melting snow enter watercourses.
  • 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.
  • Keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages, exercise caution near fast moving rivers and streams and maintain close supervision of children and pets.
  • The 7-day weather forecast is predicting daytime highs of 3°C to 20°C and overnight lows between -4°C and 10°C with up to 65 mm of rainfall.

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

Flood Safety & Preparedness

  • Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and pay attention to Water Bulletins and flood messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and local authorities. Explore the provincial Flood Forecasting and Warning Program
  • Keep Away From Flooded Areas: Never walk, wade, 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 emergency officials promptly and be prepared to leave the area if evacuation is recommended. Avoid unnecessary travel so emergency crews can respond safely. Prepare an emergency kit that is ready to take with you at a moment’s notice.

Learn more about what you should do before, during and after a flood, and where to get current flood information: Floods | ontario.ca

Sandbags Available

Self-serve sandbags are available at Bala Sports Park (3224 Muskoka Rd. 169).

Ice Safety: Think Twice Before You Step on Ice

No ice is ever completely safe. Recent warm temperatures followed by colder weather have created unpredictable and unsafe ice conditions across lakes and waterways.

If you plan to be on the ice, remember these key safety reminders:

    • Check Before You Go: Ice conditions can change quickly and vary across the same lake. Always check ice thickness often and do not rely on past conditions or tracks from others.
    • Go With a Partner: Never go out alone. Let someone know where you are going, your route, and when you plan to return.
    • Be Ready for an Emergency: Wear ice picks and a flotation or survival suit. Carry a whistle and a charged cellphone in case help is needed.
    • Stay Away From Moving Water: Avoid rivers, locks, narrows, inlets, and outlets. Ice near moving or spring-fed water can be unsafe at any time.
    • General Guidelines: Clear ice should be a minimum of 10 centimeters (four inches) for walking and ice fishing, 12 cm (five inches) for one snowmobile or ATV, 20-30 cm (eight to 12 inches) for a car or small pickup, and 30-38 cm (12-15 inches) for a medium truck.

Learn more about winter outdoor safety: Winter outdoor safety | Canada.ca

For more information:

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

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

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