The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry advises that lakes across the Township, including the Moon River, will remain under a Flood Warning until April 28.
While water levels on Lake Rosseau have stabilized, Lake Muskoka is expected to continue to slowly rise and peak over the course of the weekend. Accordingly, flows into the Bala Reach are expected to moderate over the next 24-72 hours. However, the significant amount of rain forecasted over the weekend may delay this stabilization of the water levels.
Residents are encouraged to continue to take precautions to protect their property. The Township continues to recommend that items close to the water’s edge and in the lower levels of boat houses be secured in order to prevent damage. It is further recommended that you disconnect boathouses from the electrical supply and weigh down docks that may be susceptible to floating away.
It is important to keep in mind that saturated areas adjacent to still and moving water can be unstable and/or slippery especially during the spring. The public is asked to please stay away from riverbanks and flowing water, and watch children and pets around these areas.
For those who choose to navigate waterways over the weekend, be mindful of speed, and the potential for floating debris. Lost property can be reported to the Bracebridge O.P.P. either online at opp.ca or call (705) 645-2211.
The public should be aware that the Township will not be installing any of the Municipal floating docks until water levels subside significantly.
Free sand and sand bags continue to be available at Hanna Park in Port Carling and the Bala Sports Park in Bala.
Residents are advised that properties in flooded areas using a well for potable water should assume the water is not safe to drink. Property owners are responsible for monitoring their own wells. Please visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website for more information on private water during and after a flood.
Residents should be prepared for an emergency by creating a 72-hour emergency preparedness kit and download the Voyent Alert! app to receive location-based updates should water become a concern.
Should you have concerns about water levels, please reach out to the Ministry of Natural Resource and Forestry’s Water Management Team at 705-645-8747 or email watermanagement.psdistrict@ontario.ca. In the event of an emergency, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
