After mother nature heated up over the last little bit, it appears she will be cooling off again. At least for the short term.
The thermostat is set to be under 0 for the next few days, however the forecast shows it’s back to above freezing temperatures as early as Monday.
Town of Bracebridge officials say this winter, we received a significant amount of snow, and with consistently cold temperatures, it accumulated with very little opportunity to melt or minimize. As temperatures begin to change, they’re reminding property owners to be prepared and take the correct precautions against flooding.
“The Town is committed to community health and wellbeing and is actively monitoring environmental conditions as seasons change and working closely with our partners at the Ministry of Natural Resources,” says Bracebridge Mayor, Rick Maloney. “We encourage residents to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and remain vigilant as weather conditions change.”
Here’s what town officials say homeowners can do to be prepared:
- Clear snow and ice around home walls, window wells and drains.
- Check that sump pumps are in good working condition.
- Clear downspouts and eavestroughs of ice and debris and lead water away from house foundation.
- Don’t leave valuables and important documents in basements.
- Secure docs, any furniture and boats.
- Monitor local weather forecasts.
They also warn to keep yourselves, children and pets away from bodies of water and fasts flowing waters and practice extreme caution. They add to not drive through flooded areas since even shallow waters may pose a hazard.
On March 4, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) reported water levels on most managed lakes are at or below operating level for this time of year. The average snow water levels across Muskoka Watershed are only slightly above normal levels.
Officials say that in the case of high water or flooding conditions, the MNR will issue a Water Bulletin.
For additional safety tips, visit Seasonal Flooding | Town of Bracebridge
