Flood warnings in effect across parts of Muskoka, Parry Sound and Haliburton

A flooded road sign in Muskoka, Ont. (CTV News/Mike Lang)

Flood warnings are in effect across parts of Muskoka, Parry Sound and Haliburton.

On Thursday, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) issued a notice for the French River and Pickerel River, along with a watershed conditions statement for the Severn River, including Sparrow Lake.

The warnings remain in effect until next Fri., May 29, at 11:59 p.m.

The ministry says water levels in some areas are beginning to stabilize, while others continue to see slow declines after recent high-water conditions.

Residents in flood-prone areas are being asked to protect their property and monitor conditions closely.

“Residents, visitors and boaters are advised to use extreme caution near dams, as recent high-water levels may have affected safety booms, signage, barriers and other safety features,” stated the ministry.

The MNR also says to use extreme caution when accessing forest roads for outdoor activities, as many may have been damaged by seasonal conditions, like washouts.

“These roads may be impassable,” said the MNR in a release. “Slippery stream banks and fast-flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around all water bodies.”

Residents are encouraged to keep children and pets away from shorelines and stay up to date on changing weather.