Flood outlook bulletin issued for Bracebridge

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (March 13, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has issued a Flood Outlook bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District in effect until Friday, March 20 for the Muskoka River Watershed and Black River. Runoff to local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase significantly. A flood outlook gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions.

The MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Status updates can be found on the Ontario flood map.

Current Conditions
Higher than normal flow conditions are occurring throughout the area due to recent rainfall and snowmelt. Slippery stream banks and fast flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around all water bodies. Residents 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.

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees as runoff from rainfall and melting snow enter watercourses. Residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue to take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.

Flood Preparedness and Safety Tips
Residents in flood prone areas are encouraged to take the following precautions to minimize flood risks and protect their properties:

• Clear snow and ice from around foundation walls, window wells, and drains to prevent water from pooling and seeping into basements.
• Check sump pumps to ensure they are in good working order and have a backup power source in case of outages.
• Ensure downspouts and eavestroughs are clear of ice and debris and direct water away from your home’s foundation.
• Move valuable items and important documents from basements or low-lying areas to higher ground.
• Secure docks, and any items close to waterways such as outdoor furniture or boats.
• Consider installing backflow prevention valves in basement drains to prevent sewage backup.
• Monitor local weather forecasts and water level updates through official Town communications and emergency alerts.

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
As snow melts and water levels change, residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution around rivers, lakes, and drainage courses.

• No ice is safe ice. Fluctuating 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 an emergency kit prepared with all the items you and your family need to sustain themselves for a prolonged period of time.

Public Works crews continue to follow changing weather conditions and clear catch basins, push snowbanks back 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 additional safety tips on how to prepare and stay safe and to sign up for emergency alerts, visit bracebridge.ca/seasonalflooding.