FLOODS COULD WORSEN AS RAINFALL MAY EXCEED 50 MM

PARRY SOUND-MUSKKA — Heavy rains that continued into Friday night — and which could exceed 50 mm — along with a continuing snow presence in Algonquin Park have everyone fearing the worst is not over for flooded parts of Muskoka.

As a result the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry reminds residents that a Flood Warning will remain in effect for Muskoka, Parry Sound and north-west Haliburton until next Friday, May 3.

The ice is pretty much gone, but Walker’s Point Marina staff in Gravenhurst are left wondering where its docks are in this social media post. And they could be under more water come this weekend.

They said in a release Friday that after the results of last week’s rain event that dropped between 60-70 mm of rain from April 17-20, water levels and river flows are remaining high and are still climbing in a few cases.

They say that in most cases, however, lake levels have slowed their climb and are peaking, while others are starting to drop significantly.

Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning that warns of significant rain Friday for this area.

Total rainfall amounts of 25 to 40 mm were forecast by late Friday night.

The MNRF says local amounts exceeding 50 mm are possible.

They say depending on the amount of rainfall that is received, current lake levels and river flows will remain high over the next week as this additional rain works its way though the watershed. It is expected that lower-lying portions of known flood-prone roads along river courses will be impacted to various degrees as lake/river levels remain high over the weekend and into next week.

Snow surveys were conducted Wednesday and no snow was recorded.

Although no snow was recorded at MNRF district survey sites, there is still some snow present on the landscape in low lying conifer areas and north facing slopes within the Muskoka and Parry Sound regions as well as within Algonquin Park.

Snow conditions in Algonquin Provincial Park, which is located in the top of the watershed are recording 57mm of snow water equivalence at their survey locations.

Residents and those visiting the area are advised to be aware of current watershed conditions. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions exist throughout the area and residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages and exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams.

Banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies are extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around water bodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets.

Residents that may be affected by high water conditions should take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.