Flood outlook bulletin issued for Bracebridge

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (March 14, 2025) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has issued a Flood Outlook bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District in effect until March 21. Runoff to local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase significantly. As a result, water levels and river flows are expected to rise with increased runoff.

Current Conditions
Water levels in most lakes are at or below target for this time of year. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions may develop throughout the area and residents are reminded to exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams.

Property owners that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue to take necessary action to protect and secure vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions. Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees.

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook
A flood outlook gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions. Local river sections included in this Flood Outlook include the Black River and Muskoka River Watersheds. Smaller waterways and culverts may also be experiencing overflow.

The MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Status updates can be found on the Ontario flood map.

Special Weather Statement from Environment Canada
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Bracebridge. Significant rainfall is possible this weekend with a total rainfall amount of 20 to 40 mm with locally higher amounts possible. Rain is expected to begin Saturday evening through to Sunday night. At times, rain can be heavy, and there is a risk of thunderstorms. Localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads are possible.

Flood Preparedness and Safety Tips
Residents in flood prone areas are encouraged to take the following precautions to minimize flood risks and protect their properties:

• Clear snow and ice from around foundation walls, window wells, and drains to prevent water from pooling and seeping into basements.
• Check sump pumps to ensure they are in good working order and have a backup power source in case of outages.
• Ensure downspouts and eavestroughs are clear of ice and debris and direct water away from your home’s foundation.
• Move valuable items and important documents from basements or low-lying areas to higher ground.
• Secure docks, and any items close to waterways such as outdoor furniture or boats.
• Consider installing backflow prevention valves in basement drains to prevent sewage backup.
• Monitor local weather forecasts and water level updates through official Town communications and emergency alerts.

Stay Safe Near Waterways
As snow melts and water levels change, residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution around rivers, lakes, and drainage courses.

• No ice is safe ice. Warmer temperatures and precipitation will weaken ice conditions;
• Stay away from fast-moving water and unstable banks, as they can collapse without warning;
• Keep children and pets away from all water bodies and ice-covered surfaces, as ice can quickly become unsafe;
• Exercise extreme caution when using forest access, gravel or secondary roads as they may be prone to soft areas;
• Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Even shallow water can be hazardous and unpredictable; and
• Be prepared. Have a 72-hour kit prepared with all the items you and your family need to sustain themselves for at least three days.

Public Works crews continue to follow changing weather conditions and clear catch basins, push snowbanks back and monitor known areas that experience localized flooding.

For more information on flood updates, visit the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program website or contact the Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District Water Team via email at watermanagement.psdistrict@ontario.ca.

For additional safety tips on how to prepare and stay safe and to sign up for emergency alerts, visit bracebridge.ca/seasonalflooding.

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About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country.  With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.




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Town of Bracebridge
media@bracebridge.ca