Flood warning ended – flood outlook in effect until May 13

BRACEBRIDGE (April 29, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has extended the Flood Warning for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District until Wednesday, May 6 for the Muskoka River Watershed and Black River. One of the locations of greatest concern is Lake Muskoka.

Several areas are experiencing elevated water levels and flows. Residents and visitors should anticipate lake and river water levels to continue to stabilize over the next week, with decreases possible in some locations.

MNR is also advising extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities, as many are seasonally inundated with water and prone to washouts. These roads may be impassable due to current water levels.

The MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. 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.

Operations Update
Public Works crews continue to monitor known flood prone areas. As water begins to stabilize and recede, crews will begin to assess any damage to infrastructure and clear debris.

Town of Bracebridge parks and trails remain closed and are not maintained during the off season. If you are visiting, please use extreme caution and use at your own risk. Recreational boating is not advised.

Please be reminded that the Town does not service private roads. Please use extreme caution.

Road and water safety
Please be respectful of the community members who continue to be affected by flooding and are working hard to protect their property. Excessive road and water traffic can cause more damage to roads, property and shorelines, causing adverse impacts to the flood mitigation procedures homeowners have in place.

Recreational boating is not recommended due to increased water levels and the significant amount of debris in the waterway.

Sandbags
A supply of free sandbags continue to be available for self-serve, personal use.

• At the end of Herbert Court
• George Road Landing, 1006 Sandbar Lane, at the commercial dock area

If you are beginning to clean up, used sandbags can be dropped off at either of these locations for disposal. Please do not place used sandbags on the skids with the unused ones. Sandbags can also be disposed of for free at Rosewarne Landfill.

Debris Cleanup
The District of Muskoka’s flood debris disposal voucher program is active. Eligible residential property owners can apply for a single-use physical voucher to dispose of one load of flood-damaged residential debris without tipping fees. The program ends on May 25, or earlier if funding limits are reached.

• One voucher per eligible residential property
• Valid for one disposal trip only
• Must be presented before unloading
• Collected by staff at time of use
• Voucher must be picked up in person or by an authorized representative

Learn more at muskoka.on.ca/flood-updates.

Disaster Relief Funding
Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) is a Provincial program that can help residents recover costs after a natural disaster. The program may be activated for damage to private property if there’s a sudden, unexpected natural event, such as a flood.

DRAO has not yet been activated for Bracebridge. To learn more about the program, eligibility, or to request activation, contact 1-877-822-0116 or DisasterAssistance@Ontario.ca.

Sandbag Disposal
Sandbags from flooded areas have been in contact with unsafe water. Both the bags and the sand may contain harmful bacteria. Treat used sandbags as municipal waste.

• Wear appropriate protection such as gloves and eye wear to reduce your risk of exposure to bacteria, chemicals, or other hazards that could be present on or in used sandbags.
• Wash hands with soap and warm water after contacting floodwaters or handling items such as used sandbags.
• Do not reuse sand from used sandbags in areas where there may be human contact.
• Do not use the sand from used sandbags in children’s sandboxes, playgrounds, or for landscaping purposes where there may be direct human contact.
• Never dispose of sand from used sandbags in a wetland, along waterways (shorelines), or other locations where it may have contact with people, wildlife, and the water.

Health and Safety
If private wells or water sources are affected by flooding, stop using them immediately and use an alternative water supply such as commercially bottled water for ALL water use. A supply of water testing kits are available at:

• Bracebridge Fire Station 1, 225 Taylor Road
• Bracebridge Sportsplex, 110 Clearbrook Trail
• Muskoka Lumber Community Centre, 56 Salmon Avenue 

For more information on drinking water safety and flooding, visit simcoemuskokahealth.org/flood.

For additional safety tips on how to prepare and stay safe and to sign up for emergency alerts, visit bracebridge.ca/flood.

Additional Resources:

BRACEBRIDGE (April 22, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has extended the Flood Warning for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District until Wednesday, April 29 for the Muskoka River Watershed and Black River.

MNR is advising municipalities and residents to take immediate action to safeguard homes and property. Flooding can occur quickly and with little or no warning. Several areas are experiencing elevated water levels and flows. In some locations, levels are comparable to those observed in 2019 and may result in localized infrastructure impacts and flooding. Residents who have sandbagged on Lake Muskoka should consider keeping them in place for a couple of weeks as water levels change with precipitation. 

Residents and visitors should anticipate lake and river water levels to start to stabilize in some areas over the next week, with decreases possible in some locations.

MNR is also advising extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities, as many are seasonally inundated with water and prone to washouts. These roads may be impassable due to current water levels.

The MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. 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.

Operations Update
Public Works crews continue to monitor known flood prone areas. Residents are reminded not to move any pylons or barriers in flooded areas and to be safe around all bodies of water. Flood water is moving rapidly, and these barriers are there to ensure community safety.

Several road closures and cautions remain in effect, please obey all onsite signage and barriers. The Ontario Provincial Police are assisting with enforcing road closures in several areas.

Town of Bracebridge parks and trails remain closed and are not maintained during the off season. If you are visiting, please use extreme caution and use at your own risk. Recreational boating is not advised.

Please be reminded that the Town does not service private roads. Please use extreme caution.

Road and water safety
The Town is aware of increased traffic to local roads and waterfalls to view the impacts of the ongoing flood. Please be respectful of the fact that many community members continue to be affected and are working hard to protect their property.

Excessive road and water traffic can cause more damage to roads, property and shorelines, causing adverse impacts to the flood mitigation procedures homeowners have in place. Please obey all road closures and limit traffic to affected areas.

Recreational boating is not recommended due to hazardous conditions and increased water levels. There is a significant amount of debris in the waterway which is extremely hazardous. Several local marinas are also currently being affected by flooding.

Please be advised that the George Road landing boat launch and parking lot on Lake Muskoka is flooded.

Sandbags
A supply of free sand and sandbags continue to be available for self-serve, personal use at multiple locations.

Sand and bags for filling:

• Municipal Office, 1000 Taylor Court
• 331 Fraserburg Road, Fairground parking lot on the right

Sand, bags, and filled sandbags:

• Past the intersection of Beaumont Drive and Beaumont Farm Road on the paved cul-de-sac
• George Road Landing, 1006 Sandbar Lane, at the commercial dock area

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.

Thank you to the many community groups and municipal partners who have helped fill sandbags for the community.

Sandbag Disposal
Sandbags from flooded areas have been in contact with unsafe water. Both the bags and the sand may contain harmful bacteria. Treat used sandbags as municipal waste.

• Wear appropriate protection such as gloves and eye wear to reduce your risk of exposure to bacteria, chemicals, or other hazards that could be present on or in used sandbags.
• Wash hands with soap and warm water after contacting floodwaters or handling items such as used sandbags.
• Do not reuse sand from used sandbags in areas where there may be human contact.
• Do not use the sand from used sandbags in children’s sandboxes, playgrounds, or for landscaping purposes where there may be direct human contact.
• Never dispose of sand from used sandbags in a wetland, along waterways (shorelines), or other locations where it may have contact with people, wildlife, and the water.

To learn more about flood cleanup, visit simcoemuskokahealth.org/flood.

Debris Cleanup
The District of Muskoka has introduced a flood debris disposal voucher program. Eligible residential property owners may receive a single-use physical voucher to dispose of one load of flood-damaged residential debris without tipping fees. Applications for vouchers open on Thursday, April 23.

Tipping fees will apply without a voucher. No voucher is required for sandbag disposal; they are free to drop-off at Rosewarne Landfill. Flood debris will not be collected at the curb. Items that don’t follow regular collection rules (i.e. bag limits and the Clear Bag Program) will not be picked up.

Flood debris can include items such as:

• Water-damaged furniture, mattresses, and household items
• Drywall, wood, insulation, and other building materials saturated/exposed to floodwater
• Appliances and electronics exposed to floodwater
• Branches, logs, and yard waste mixed with flood debris
• Mixed waste that cannot be separated into regular curbside categories

Learn more at muskoka.on.ca/flood-updates.

Wellness Checks
As seasonal flooding continues, take the opportunity to check on neighbours and vulnerable members of the community who may need additional assistance. If residents are in danger, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Members of the Bracebridge Fire Department are actively providing wellness checks in flood-affected areas. If you are in need of a wellness check, please call 705-645-5264 ext. 3650 to talk to a Town representative during office hours. To leave a message after hours, dial extension 3650.  Calls are being monitored and will be returned accordingly.

Health and Safety
If there is water in your basement and it’s above the electrical outlets or baseboard heaters, DO NOT enter. Call your utility provider immediately for them to disconnect power to your home.

• Lakeland Power, 705-789-5442
• Hydro One, 1-888-664-9376

If private wells or water sources are affected by flooding, stop using them immediately and use an alternative water supply such as commercially bottled water for ALL water use. 

• Assume that your private well water or lake/river water is not safe to drink. Follow drinking water precautions to protect you and your family.
• Food that has come into contact with flood water is no longer safe. Any items that have been in contact with contaminated flood water should be discarded.
• If you operate a food premise, personal service setting or childcare setting, and flood waters enter the building, you must close until further consultation with a public health inspector.
• Any surfaces or items (e.g. equipment, toys) that have been in contact with floodwaters are considered contaminated and need to cleaned and disinfected appropriately.

For more information on drinking water safety and flooding, visit simcoemuskokahealth.org/flood.

Flood Damage to a Boathouse or Outbuildings
If your property experienced flooding and appears to have sustained water or structural damage, or has been destroyed by flooding, the Town recommends hiring an engineer or a qualified home inspector to assess the damage. If repairs are needed, please contact the Building Services Branch to see when a building permit is required. Where possible, document the damage to the building with photos. Do not enter any buildings that have collapsed or partially collapsed, they will need to be checked by building authorities.

Septic System Maintenance
High water levels can seriously impact your septic system. If your property experiences flooding, take immediate action to prevent larger issues.

• Pump it. Have your septic tank pumped out as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.
• Inspect it. Hire a qualified professional to perform a full inspection when your tank is pumped. They will need to verify that the tank, filter, and leaching bed have not suffered structural or functional damage.
• Repair or replace it. If the inspection reveals damage, hire a qualified septic installer to determine the best course of action. Obtain the necessary permits needed to complete the installation or repairs.

Learn more about septic maintenance at bracebridge.ca/septic.

For additional safety tips on how to prepare and stay safe and to sign up for emergency alerts, visit bracebridge.ca/flood.

Additional Resources:

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (April 17, 2026) – As the weekend approaches, residents are reminded to remain diligent and aware as the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Flood Warning for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District remains in effect until Wednesday, April 22 for the Muskoka River Watershed.

MNR advises municipalities and residents to expect lake water levels to continue to rise and river flows to remain high throughout this week and into late next week.

Operations Update
Public Works crews continue to monitor known flood prone areas and crews will be patrolling over the weekend. Residents are reminded not to move any pilons or barriers in flood prone areas and to be safe around all bodies of water. Flood water is moving rapidly, and these barriers are there to ensure community safety.

Refrain from boating while water levels remain high. Boating and the wake produced can cause additional damage to shoreline property, and there is a significant amount of debris in the waterway. Some lakes within the area are still covered in ice which creates floating ice hazards that could damage waterfront infrastructure.

Please be reminded that the Town does not service private roads. Please use extreme caution.

For updated road closure and condition updates, visit bracebridge.ca/roadclosures.

Sandbags
A limited supply of free sand and sandbags continue to be available for self-serve, personal use at multiple locations, including:

• Municipal Office, 1000 Taylor Court;
• 331 Fraserburg Road – Fairground parking lot on the right;
• George Road Landing - 1006 Sandbar Lane, at the Commercial dock area;
• At the intersection of Beaumont Drive and Beaumont Farm Road on the paved cul-da-sac; and
• Bracebridge Fire Station 2, 3448 HWY 118 East.

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.

Be a Good Neighbour
As seasonal flooding continues, take the opportunity to check on neighbours and vulnerable members of the community who may need additional assistance. If residents are in danger, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

If you are in need of a wellness check, please call 705-645-5264 ext. 3650 to talk to a Town representative during office hours. To leave a message after hours, dial extension 3650.  Calls are being monitored and will be returned accordingly.

If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with flood efforts, please complete the Town’s volunteer sign up form.

Health and Safety
If there is water in your basement and it’s above the electrical outlets or baseboard heaters, DO NOT enter. Call your utility provider immediately for them to disconnect power to your home.

• Lakeland Power, 705-789-5442
• Hydro One, 1-888-664-9376

If private wells are affected by flooding, residents are advised to stop using them immediately and use an alternative water supply such as commercially bottled water for ALL water use. This includes drinking, brushing teeth, preparing food including baby food and infant formula, cleaning, bathing, and hand washing. For more information on drinking water safety and flooding, visit simcoemuskokahealth.org.

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.

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (April 16, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Flood Warning for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District remains in effect until Wednesday, April 22 for the Muskoka River Watershed.

Locations of particular concern due to the potential for heightened impacts include Lake Muskoka.

MNR advises municipalities and residents to take immediate action to safeguard homes and property. Flooding could occur quickly and with little or no warning.

With precipitation and continued warm temperatures in the forecast, some areas may experience elevated water levels and flows. In some locations, this could approach levels observed in 2019 and may result in localized road washouts, infrastructure damage, and flooding.

Residents and visitors should expect lake water levels to continue to rise and river flows to remain high throughout this week and into late next week.

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (April 13, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has issued a Flood Warning bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District in effect until Wednesday, April 22 for the Muskoka River Watershed.

Residents and visitors should expect lake water levels to continue to rise and river flows to remain high throughout the week and into the weekend. Runoff into local lakes and rivers is expected to increase due to recent rainfall, with additional forecasted precipitation and warming temperatures contributing to higher lake water levels and river flows.

A flood warning indicates that flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities. 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 water 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. 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.

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to various degrees as runoff from rainfall and melting snow enter watercourses.

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:

• 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 are 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 continues to melt 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 have significantly weakened 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 culverts 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.

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (April 10, 2026) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has issued a Flood Watch bulletin for Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District in effect until Friday, April 17 for the Muskoka River Watershed. Runoff into local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase with forecasted rainfall and warmer temperatures resulting in elevated lake water levels and river flows.

A flood watch indicates the potential for flooding within specific watercourses and municipalities. 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:

• 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 areavailable 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 continues to melt 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 have significantly weakened 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,  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.