Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook & Water Safety Bulletin (in effect until March 27, 2026)

By Township of Muskoka Lakes - Mar 23, 2026

In effect for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District until March 27, 2026. Information provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, March 23, 2026 – The Ministry of Natural Resources (“MNR”), Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, is advising residents that the following bulletins are in effect until Friday, March 27, 2026: 

  • Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District
  • Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook Bulletin for the Severn River Watershed including Sparrow Lake within the district

This bulletin 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.

Residents and visitors are advised to use extreme caution around waterbodies as water levels and river flows may increase due to forecast rainfall and melting snow. Lower-lying and flood-prone areas may experience localized impacts.

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.
  • Residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.
  • Forecasts for this week show daytime highs of -4°C to +3°C, and overnight lows are forecasted between -18°C and -1°C. Forecasts are also anticipating that the area will receive up to 15cm of snow.             
  • River flows in many areas of the district are at elevated levels. Lake water levels in most areas are stabilizing and beginning to decrease with near normal seasonal temperatures forecasted.

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.

Flooding cannot always be prevented. Awareness, preparation, and caution are the best ways to reduce risk and protect yourself and your community.

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

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

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