The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has declared a flood watch for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District, in effect until Friday, April 14. Runoff to local lakes and rivers is increasing significantly and river flows in certain areas may rise to flood thresholds with increased runoff.
Local river sections included in this Flood Watch are Black River near Vankoughnet. Smaller waterways and culverts are also experiencing overflow.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Watch
A flood watch indicates the potential for flooding within specific watercourses and municipalities.
Current Conditions
Lake water levels are generally within their lower normal operating zones for this time of year. River flows are increasing and are expected to reach flood thresholds in some areas. The remaining snowpack ranges from average to above average for this time of year and is melting with rainfall and mild weather. Increased runoff will cause lake levels and river flows to continue to rise over the next several days.
Road Safety
Exercise extreme caution when driving in changing weather conditions. Localized flooding and washouts are possible as the rain continues. Please be aware of and follow all on-road signage and barriers.
Take Precaution
Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around bodies of water and maintain close supervision of children and pets due to high water levels and river flows. Any ice on local waterways is not safe.
Property owners are encouraged to take necessary action to protect/secure their property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.
The Ministry advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities as they may become seasonally inundated with water, are prone to washouts and may become impassible due to localized flooding. The Ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Status updates can be found on the Ontario flood map.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit bracebridge.ca/emergencypreparedness.
