Water Safety Bulletin Remains in Effect (until June 26)

- Jun 19, 2026

Provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, June 19, 2026 – The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, is advising area residents and visitors that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety is in effect for the following portions of the Muskoka River Watershed:

  • Lake Rosseau and Lake Joseph (including the Indian River between Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka)
  • Moon River including the Bala Reach

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.

This statement will remain in effect until Friday, June 26, 2026 at 11:59pm

Summary:

  • Water levels and river flows in some locations are elevated but are expected to gradually decrease over the next week. 
  • Recent rainfall across the watershed has resulted in sustained high water levels and flows in some locations. With soils remaining saturated, runoff continues to contribute to elevated river flows and lake levels. 
  • The weather forecast indicates periodic precipitation over the next 7 days, generally in smaller, scattered events rather than a single significant rainfall event. At this time, forecasted rainfall amounts appear relatively modest; however, any additional precipitation on already saturated ground may contribute to continued elevated water levels and flows across the watershed, and may slow the rate of recession.

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.
  • Definition: 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.

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

If you require sandbags or need to dispose of them, please contact the Township of Muskoka Lakes at 705-765-3156 or email pw@publicworks.ca 

Flood Debris & Garbage

In the Township of Muskoka Lakes, waste 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, the District has launched temporary fee relief programs (extended until June 29, 2026) 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 x250
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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