Unseasonably warm conditions create flooding in Muskoka
Significant rainfall last week and the snow melt runoff have created flooding concerns in Muskoka, as firefighters fill sandbags for residents in Huntsville to help prevent property damage.
"I'm getting nervous a little bit because I see the river is getting higher," said local resident Ron Barnes.
Flood watches and warnings are in effect in many areas of Muskoka and Parry Sound.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry issued a flood warning bulletin for the Muskoka River watershed. The warning covers the Big East River, the north and south branches of the Muskoka River, and the Bala Reach and Moon River.
Rising water levels in Huntsville, Ont., raises concerns on Fri., April 14, 2023. (CTV News/Rob Cooper)
Officials say Fairy Lake in Huntsville is experiencing historical water level maximums due to unseasonably high temperatures.
Residents are urged to be cautious when using forest access roads that could become impassible because of localized flooding.
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Residents are advised to anticipate road closures and obey all posted signage.
Old North Road and Robert Road are currently closed in Huntsville.
Additionally, property owners are encouraged to be proactive and take precautions with the rapidly changing conditions.
Town staff recommend securing items close to the water's edge and in lower levels of boat houses to prevent damage.
Old North Road in Huntsville, Ont., is washed out as water levels rise causing localized flooding on Fri., April 14, 2023. (CTV News/Rob Cooper)
Jeremy Waterhouse canoed home with a friend near Roberts Road.
"I'll just canoe in and tie off to my front step, and just make sure I get everything off the floor and out of there because it's going to come up, probably another foot and a half tonight with this sun," he said.
A free sandbag filling station is available behind the Canada Summit Centre on Park Drive to residents in low-lying areas.
Sandbags are filled to help prevent flood damage in Huntsville, Ont., on Fri., April 14, 2023. (CTV News/Rob Cooper)
There is another potential for heavy rainfall in the area on Monday and a mix of rain and snow Tuesday.
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