Rising water forces emergency cofferdams along Muskoka roads

Parts of Simcoe County and Muskoka are underwater tonight as worsening weather continues to cause problems.

Flooding continues to impact parts of Muskoka, pushing rivers and lakes beyond their banks and forcing officials to brace for impacts.

With water levels running high, the District of Muskoka says it is installing cofferdams along Muskoka Road 14 in Fraserburg.

These water‑filled flexible barriers are designed to hold back the intense flow and prevent it from spilling onto roads, helping protect neighbouring homes and infrastructure.

Staff says this is the first time they have been deployed.

• IN PICTURES: Widespread flooding impacts communities across the region

“There are no other locations across the District where they are currently located, however, we’re in the process of acquiring additional devices to manage localized flooding on District Roads and to support our area municipal partners,” says the District.

The Ministry of Natural Resources warned Wednesday that flooding could intensify in the coming days, potentially reaching levels similar to the 2019 floods that forced a state of emergency in parts of the region.

Environment Canada says up to 20 millimetres of rain is expected Thursday in northern communities, with more showers and thunderstorms adding pressure to waterways that are already running high.

In Huntsville, a flood warning remains in effect until next Wednesday. The town says water levels continue to increase as snowmelt and runoff from the Algonquin watershed pass through the system.

Sandbags are available 24 hours a day at two locations in the area:

• Active Living Centre – Upper parking lot, 20 Park Drive, Huntsville
• Port Sydney Fire Department – 387 S. Mary Lake Road, Port Sydney

“The town is strongly advising property owners and businesses to take the necessary precautions to protect and secure their property in preparation for the potential for more severe flooding,” Huntsville officials warn in a release.

Crews say they are monitoring affected roads and placing barricades and signage during the evolving weather event.

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