Seasonal Flooding

Before a Flood

During a Flood

After a Flood

Ontario Flood Map

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 and Black River.

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.

Sandbags

A limited supply of free sand and sandbags are available for filling for personal use at the following locations:

Municipal Office, 1000 Taylor Court;
Fraserburg Road, Fairground parking lot on the right;
George Road, at the commercial dock area;
Beaumont Drive, 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.

News Updates

Flood warning bulletin issued for Bracebridge
Apr 16, 2026
Road closures and updates due to seasonal flooding
Mar 16, 2026

Resources

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as “the silent killer.” It is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell and is created when fossil fuels such as kerosene, gasoline, natural gas, propane, or wood don’t burn completely.

Exposure to CO can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, collapse, loss of consciousness, and death. If a CO alarm activates or you suspect someone in your home has symptoms of CO poisoning, immediately go outside and call 9-1-1.

Portable generators should only be used outdoors and carefully located to ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the home;
Ensure outside vents for all fuel-burning appliances are clear of snow and ice;
Test your CO Alarms today and monthly; and
If a CO alarm activates or you suspect someone in your home has symptoms of CO poisoning, immediately go outside and call 9-1-1.

Electrical Safety

Water and electricity do not mix. Electricity can move through water or wet flooring and cause a severe electrical shock. Do not enter your basement or any room if the water is above the level of electrical outlets, baseboard heaters or furnace, or is near your electrical panel.

If you see water approaching these areas, contact your power service provider to have your power disconnected.

If power has been disconnected to your property, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) will be required to inspect the property prior to hydro being restored.

Please NOTE: Any electrical devices, plugs, heaters, furnaces, or pumps that have been flooded or affected by water, will require an electrician to service it before the inspector is called.

To schedule an inspection when you are ready to have power restored, contact the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) or visit esasafe.com/floodsafety.

Food Safety

During and after a power outage or flood it is important to consider the safety of your food and water to protect against any food or waterborne illnesses. Visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit for information to ensure that you are safe after a power outage.

Generator Safety

Generators, when used properly, can provide an alternative power source. However, they must be used safely and properly.

Never operate a generator inside your home or garage. It can cause a build-up of fatal fumes, including carbon monoxide. Fans or open windows and doors do not provide enough fresh air to keep you safe;
Never connect portable generators to electrical appliances or wiring components that have been affected/damaged by water;
If extension cords must be used, only use grounded cords that are rated for proper use;
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Allow the generator engine to cool for at least two minutes before refueling and always use fresh gasoline; and
Ensure that generators are placed away from the house and that snow and ice are cleared from around the unit to ensure proper ventilation.

Power Outages

Electricity is supplied by two organizations in Bracebridge. For updates on any power outages, visit: