Flood watch bulletin issued for Muskoka River and Black River

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (April 11, 2025) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has downgraded the water safety bulletin to a Flood Watch for the Muskoka River Watershed and Black River, in effect until Friday, April 18. A flood watch indicates the potential for flooding within specific watercourses and municipalities.

Current Conditions
Residents should expect water levels and river flows to remain high for the next week and potentially beyond. Runoff into local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase with forecasted rainfall, snow melt and warm weather.

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.

Sandbags
A limited supply of free sand and sandbags is available for filling at the Municipal Office at 1000 Taylor Court for personal use. Sandbags can be placed around lower-level doors and windows to help prevent water from entering a home, or around propane tanks or other vulnerable infrastructure. Private contractors can also provide additional resources and support if necessary.

Stay Safe Near Waterways
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, clear catch basins, 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 tips on flood preparedness, safety and road closures, 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.




MEDIA CONTACT
Town of Bracebridge
media@bracebridge.ca