Muskoka River Watershed Conditions Update and Ice Safety

- Jan 08, 2026

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, January 8, 2026 – The Township of Muskoka Lakes is sharing the following Muskoka River Watershed update from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (“MNR”).

Watershed Conditions Monitoring

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry actively monitors water levels, river flows, snowpack, and weather conditions across the Muskoka River Watershed throughout the year. Current conditions indicate that precipitation and snowpack remain below seasonal averages, which can influence how water levels respond during the spring melt.

Winter Drawdown of Lakes

Winter drawdown of managed lakes has begun or is expected to begin within the next two weeks. This seasonal lowering of water levels helps prepare lakes and rivers for spring runoff.

Flood Risk and Dam Operations

While winter drawdown is an important water management tool, it does not prevent flooding. Dams within the watershed are not designed for flood control and do not have the capacity to store large volumes of water during extreme weather events.

Spring Flooding

Historically, flooding in the Muskoka watershed is most often caused by rapid snowmelt combined with significant spring rainfall. If conditions indicate a risk of high-water levels or flooding, MNR will issue a Water Bulletin.

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.

For more information:

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

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

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

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

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