The Ministry of Natural Resources is advising area residents and visitors that a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety bulletin is in effect for portions of the Muskoka River Watershed until Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11:59 pm.
This message applies to the following areas within the MNR Bracebridge–Minden–Parry Sound District, including portions of the District of Parry Sound and the District of Muskoka:
• Lake Rosseau and Lake Joseph (Including the Indian River between Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka).
• Moon River, including the Bala Reach
Residents, visitors, and boaters are advised to use extreme caution near dams, as recent high water levels may have affected safety booms, signage, barriers, and other safety features.
Residents who have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue to take necessary action to protect or secure any 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 varying degrees.
MNR also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities, as many may have been damaged by seasonal conditions, including washouts. These roads may be impassable.
Slippery stream banks and fast-flowing water could create hazardous conditions around all water bodies. Residents and visitors are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages, exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams, and maintain close supervision of children and pets.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
Recent rainfall across the watershed has resulted in sustained high water levels and flows in some locations. With soils remaining saturated, runoff continues to contribute to elevated river flows and lake levels.
The weather forecast indicates periodic precipitation over the next 7 days, generally in smaller, scattered events rather than a single significant rainfall event. At this time, forecasted rainfall amounts appear relatively modest; however, any additional precipitation on already saturated ground may contribute to continued elevated water levels and flows across the watershed, and may slow the rate of recession.
Water levels and river flows in some locations are elevated but are expected to gradually decrease over the next week
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