21
Apr
2013
2013
Dangerous Spring Runoffs in Muskoka
The recent rain combined with the melting snow and ice has caused extreme flooding especially around rivers such as the north and south branches of the Muskoka river. The water is now exceeding the capacity of the dams in the Huntsville area. Many road closures and evacuations are taking place. Water levels are up very high on the big three lakes so you may want to have someone check on your cottage and docks. Here is a video taken around Bracebridge that shows the massive volumes of water. thanks to districtmediadesign.
More information here: http://www.cottagecountrynow.ca/
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
it’s starting to get really bad, our property is starting to flood now but nothing compared to allot of places, we know people who were driving with water flowing over the hood of there full size pickup truck today while driving down the road in the middle of the woods. it’s crazy
There are more boathouses in Muskoka that are partially submerged tis year. This is not entirely uncommon. The Ministry of Natural Resources(MNR) “readies” water levels in our lakes by “drawing down” the water level prior to spring in anticipation of the snowmelt. But, we have hung on to a lot of snow this season and had at least one day of record rain. Other than structural damage if the levels are severe, the worry is that the levels may be such that fuel/oil containers in boathouses may be indundated and spill or leak into the watershed.
Steve – it may not be entirely uncommon to have the high water levels in Muskoka however each time it happens substantial damage is caused to boathouses, docks and properties close to shore. I have seen numerous docks and large pieces of lumber floating around. In 2008 when this happened there were many millions of dollars in insurance claims.
Wonderful photos and thoughts as always Ed. I remember the spring runoff in various places I lived in the north, Sudbury, Manitoulin, Espanola, Thunder Bay. It a torrent of nature that leaves no prisoners. Even in the Humber River in Toronto growing up, there were those taken by the water. Never to be underestimated.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on floods. Regards