The heavy rain this week has prompted flood concerns across the region.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has issued flood warnings for several watersheds in the region including Muskoka, Parry Sound, Hailburton, the Black and Burnt Rivers.
In Bracebridge, there is a potential for flooding along the North and South branches of the Muskoka River. A number of local roads have flooded including Germania Road, Campbell’s Road and in the Flynn’s Swamp area. Town officials said flooding in these locations is common in the spring.
There have also been a number of road washouts including Speicher Lane. Crews have been out making the appropriate repairs.
In Huntsville, officials are keeping a close on water flows along the Big East River and lakes.
.According to the MNR, lake levels and river flows have increased over the past few days from rain received earlier in the week in combination with continued melting of the snow pack.
The ministry also said residents affected by flooding in the past should take necessary action to secure any vulnerable property in close proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.
Environment Canada has issued a heavy rain warning calling for up to 60mm of rainfall by Thursday which the MNR expects to will cause an increased rate of rise in lake levels and river flows as melting of the snow pack accelerates.
In Ramara Township, water levels continue to rise along the Black River, Lake St. John and the Talbot River.
As a precaution, the township is making sand available for residents. They have sand piled up at a park on Bluebird Street, Ethel Drive, Davy Drive and Ash Crescent.
Sand and bags are also being made available for residents in Severn Township at Washago Park, Lauderdale Crescent and Peninsula Crescent and at the Coldwater Community Centre.
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority also said the heavy rain could lead to minor flooding in low lying areas. The LRCA warns local streams and rivers will become dangerous, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges.
The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority warns water levels remain high in many watercourses. The conservation authority said with the heavy rainfall water levels throughout the watershed are expected to rise to near bank-full water levels, and localized flooding may occur. No major flooding is anticipated.
