MNR Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook for Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound March 14
Kawartha Lakes – The Ministry of Natural Resources – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook is in effect in the district until Friday March 21, 2025.
This message will affected residents within the MNR Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District for portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of Haliburton within the Black, Burnt, Gull, Severn, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River Watersheds.
Residents and those visiting the area are advised to be aware of current watershed conditions. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions may develop throughout the area and residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages, and exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams.
MNR advises residents to exercise extreme caution concerning ice conditions. No ice is safe ice.
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 and regularly check for updated messages.
Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees.
MNR also 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. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
Technical Information
Description of Weather System
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement.
Significant rainfall is possible the weekend of March 15 to 16. The frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall.
What: Total rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 mm with locally higher amounts possible.
When: Saturday evening through Sunday night.
Additional information: Rain, at times heavy, is expected Saturday night into Sunday. With a risk of thunderstorms, local rainfall amounts in excess of 40 mm are possible over some areas.
Description of Current Conditions
Water levels in most lakes are at or below target for this time of year. Rainfall is anticipated to cause lake levels to rise, and river flows to increase. The current snow water equivalent is slightly above the historical average for this time of year across the district.
Definitions
- 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.
- Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook (in effect until March 21, 2025): gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.
- Flood Watch - potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
- Flood Warning - flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
Learn More:
- Ontario Surface Water Monitoring Centre public webpage
- Environment Canada weather and bulletins
- A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada is recommended.
Contact Information
Water Management Team, Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District Office
Phone: 705-645-8747
Email: watermanagement.psdistrict@ontario.ca
Website: www.ontario.ca/mnr
Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
