MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 8, 2021 2021 Freshet Update #1
BRACEBRIDGE, ON – Springtime is fast approaching and flooding in low lying areas of the Town is a potential risk due to melting snow and spring rainfall. With the freshet events of 2019 still very clear in our minds, the Town of Bracebridge wishes to remind its residents and visitors that freshet preparations should be undertaken by those in areas prone to flooding.
The Town of Bracebridge is committed to the safety of our residents and visitors, as well as the protection of property. With this in mind, we wish to keep the public informed so that they can be prepared to lessen the effects of flooding events should they occur this year.
Town of Bracebridge emergency planning officials are working closely with their counterparts from the District Municipality of Muskoka and the other municipalities in Muskoka to ensure a consistent flow of information to the public in the event of a flood occurrence.
As we progress through the 2021 spring freshet, the Town will issue freshet updates to assist in flood protection and mitigation. These updates may include: Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) flood bulletins, road closure locations, sandbag availability, safety tips or other relevant flood information.
The following information, together with supplementary items found on the Town’s website and the links contained in this update, provide valuable suggestions to assist property owners in preparation for the 2021 spring freshet:
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF)
As part of their ongoing responsibilities for the management of area watersheds, the MNRF:
• Monitors water levels in major Muskoka lakes and rivers, and regulates dams as appropriate to runoff conditions.
• Monitors the snowpack across the Muskoka watershed to determine snow conditions and water content within the snowpack. The water content data assists the MNRF in forecasting the melt water potential.
• Conducts a daily “weather watch” using data collected from Environment Canada, the Weather Network and the MNRF’s Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC). This information, together with soil and snowpack water content data, is run through a computer model to predict water runoff volumes and river and lake levels.
• Through the MNRF District Office, computer generated data is used to determine if “Flood Watch” or “Flood Warning” media releases are to be issued to municipalities and the media. A “Flood Watch” may be issued by the MNRF when the potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities. A “Flood Warning” is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
• Provides daily updates to effected municipalities and Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) regarding potential flooding and flood conditions.
• Attends meetings with the Town’s Emergency Control Group (ECG), as requested.
Page 1
MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 8, 2021 2021 Freshet Update #1
Town of Bracebridge
To support the activities of the MNRF and manage impacts from the spring thaw, the Town of Bracebridge:
• Responds to MNRF flood advisory information.
• Provides updates to Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) on flood conditions.
• Issues flood information notices to Bracebridge residents via the Town’s website and media contacts.
• Maintains contact with the MNRF and private energy generators who control dam structures.
• Assists with the provision of sand bags.
• Monitors road conditions for flooding.
• Erects flood warning signs.
• Repairs washed-out roads and bridges.
• Convenes the Town’s Emergency Control Group, as required, which includes representation from the Town, MNRF, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), EMO, the District Municipality of Muskoka, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) and others as necessary.
• Declares an emergency, as necessary.
• Opens emergency reception centres to help find accommodation for displaced individuals.
Actions by Property Owners
As weather conditions and snowmelt can vary significantly from day to day, it is best to be prepared in order to protect yourself, property and home. The following information and suggestions are provided for consideration by property owners:
Monitor Forecasted Weather Conditions and Temperatures
Flooding can occur quickly as snow begins to melt in the spring of each year. A “good”, slow spring melt can occur with temperatures slightly above 0oC during the day and sub-zero temperatures overnight. These conditions result in the gradual release of water from the snowpack over an extended period of time. Localized flooding may still occur.
A quick flood can occur if warm weather conditions during the day continue through the night resulting in continuous melt and runoff. The longer the period of continuous above zero temperatures, the more likely more significant flooding will occur.
Serious flooding can occur when warm weather is experienced day and night accompanied with significant rainfall. This was the condition that was experienced in the spring of 2019.
Page 2
MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 8, 2021 2021 Freshet Update #1
Property Preparedness
Prior to the beginning of the snowmelt, consider the following if you believe your property or buildings maybe subject to flooding:
• Relocate items of value above the flood level. This may mean items in your basement, garage, shed, yard, boathouse or other structures.
• Check your sump pump to ensure that it is working. Do you need an auxiliary pump to accommodate high water flows?
• Consider what is an adequate supply of sand bags and sand to build a dyke around your house. Do you know materials suppliers? Have you considered portable or reusable water-inflated dams?
• Access a portable generator in the event of a power failure.
• Secure alternative accommodation in the event that you are forced to leave, such as friends or family.
• Know where to shut off main electrical feed to the building to avoid an electrical shock or electrocution. Is your electrical panel above the flood elevation? Do not attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present. Water and live electrical wires can be lethal. Contact an electrician for guidance.
• Securely tie your dock to the land.
• Remove lawnmowers, snowmobiles, ATVs, boats, lawn furniture, etc. from flood prone areas.
• Listen to the radio and television, and access official websites for emergency information. The MNRF or Town may issue high water safety bulletins, flood advisories, flood warnings and emergency statements. Follow directions for your safety.
Helpful Links
Be Prepared (Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services)
Town of Bracebridge:
• Emergency Services and Preparedness
• Preparing for the Spring Thaw - Flooding/High Water Information Sheet
• Road Closure Information
• 2020 Seasonal Road Flooding Notices and Information
• Town of Bracebridge (Facebook)
- 30 -
Page 3
MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 8, 2021 2021 Freshet Update #1
For further information, contact:
Jared Cayley, Deputy Fire Chief/Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC)
Phone: (705) 645-8258 ext. 401 E-mail: [email protected]
About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country. With a population in excess of 16,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.
Page 4