UPDATED MNRF urges caution near waterways, flood watch in effect

Update March 26, 2021: a flood watch advisory is in effect

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Flood Watch is in effect until Wednesday, March 31, 2021.

Higher water levels and flow conditions are anticipated as a result of melting snow, and precipitation moving through the area. Weather forecasts have been updated to suggest 20-40mm, with some areas receiving up to 50mm of precipitation today (March 26th). Another 10 to 15mm of precipitation is forecast over the weekend. Residents are reminded to keep a close watch on conditions and regularly check for updated messages.

Flows are quickly increasing in area watercourses and lake levels are rising. Localized flooding may be occurring in flood-prone areas.

Original post, March 25, 2021:

With warm temperatures rapidly melting the snowpack, and rain in the forecast, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is reminding residents to be cautious near waterways.

The Ministry has issued a water safety statement for Muskoka which is in effect until Wednesday, March 31, 2021.

“Higher water levels and flow conditions are anticipated as a result of melting snow and precipitation moving through the area, which is forecast to drop 25-35mm of precipitation…through Friday,” reads the statement.

“With the rain and warmer temperatures, banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies can be extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around water
bodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets. Ice conditions will continue to deteriorate on local lakes.”

The 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.”

Overall, water levels in most lakes are below seasonal levels and the current snowpack is below average for this time of year.

“Warm days, rain, and a melting snowpack will increase runoff which will result in an increase in flows and lake levels,” notes the MNRF, but “cooler temperatures and relatively dry conditions are forecast from Saturday until next…Wednesday, and flooding is not anticipated at this time.”

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