The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is
advising area residents that:
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Bulletin is in effect for the Black, Burnt, Gull
and Magnetawan River Watersheds.
Flood Watch is in effect for the Muskoka River Watershed and the Severn River Watershed.
These messages will remain in effect until Friday, April 26, 2024.
This message will impact residents within the MNRF Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District for
portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and City of Kawartha Lakes 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 exist 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.
The Parry Sound-Muskoka area received approximately 50 to 60mm of precipitation between Friday
April 12 and Sunday April 14 producing significant runoff into local rivers and lakes. It may be
possible that lake water levels and river flows in certain areas could reach flood levels with more
rainfall expected in the coming week. Areas that are most impacted by elevated flows and water
levels are the Muskoka River Watershed and the Severn River Watershed.
Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to varying degrees as lake/river
levels start to rise in response to significant precipitation. Residents and visitors should exercise
caution while around waterbodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets.
MNRF 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.
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.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further
updates will be issued as appropriate.