Township of North Kawartha Issues Flood Update and Public Safety Advisory

April 16, 2026

North Kawartha, ON – The Township of North Kawartha is advising residents and business owners to remain vigilant as water levels and river flows continue to rise across the region due to significant rainfall, rapid snowmelt, and warm temperatures.

Parks Canada’s Trent–Severn Waterway reports that the watershed has experienced well above-normal precipitation since March, combined with ongoing snowmelt in northern areas. As a result, lake levels and river flows are at or above full and are expected to continue rising throughout the Trent–Severn system.

Several Conservation Authorities have issued flood warnings, flood watches, and watershed safety advisories, including areas within Kawartha Conservation, Otonabee Conservation, Lower Trent Conservation, and Crowe Valley Conservation . Provincial flood warnings are also in effect in parts of Ontario, including nearby communities.

Current Conditions

• Northern watersheds, including the Gull and Burnt River systems, are experiencing very high and increasing flows due to snowmelt and rainfall.
• Kawartha Lakes and the Otonabee River are at or above full levels and continue to rise.
• Rice Lake, the Trent River, Lake Simcoe, and the Severn River system are above normal water levels, with continued increases expected.
• Ice along shorelines is weakening, and strong winds could cause ice movement and shoreline damage.
• Forecasts predict additional rainfall, with temperatures remaining above freezing.

Health and Safety Advisory

Lakelands Public Health reminds residents that floodwater is not safe and may contain bacteria, chemicals, debris, or sewage.

Residents are urged to:

• Avoid contact with floodwater and keep children and pets away from affected areas
• Use caution near flooded areas, as water may be deeper or moving faster than expected
• Wash hands and clothing thoroughly after any contact with floodwater
• Discard food that has come into contact with floodwater
• Assume private well water is unsafe if flooding has occurred nearby and use an alternate water source until tested
• Reduce water use if flooding may impact private septic systems

When returning to flooded properties, take precautions during clean-up, including wearing protective equipment and ensuring good ventilation to reduce mould risk.

Electrical Safety and Preparedness

Hydro One reminds residents that water and electricity do not mix. If floodwater approaches electrical outlets, furnaces, or baseboard heaters:

• Call 1-800-434-1235 to have power safely disconnected
• Do not enter flooded basements until power is off
• Stay clear of outdoor electrical equipment, such as pad-mounted transformers

Residents are also encouraged to ensure emergency kits are stocked in case of extended power outages.

Stay Informed

North Kawartha Residents are encouraged to:

• If flooding poses a threat to person or property call 9-1-1.
• Report an issue to the Township if flood waters are in close proximity your structures. Citizen Request Portal | Township of North Kawartha
• Sand and sandbags are available to the public just inside the sand dome located at the Township of North Kawartha Roads Garage at 10230 Highway 28, Apsley. Bring a shovel.
• Monitor weather conditions, local Conservation Authority and Provincial flood forecasts. Water level updates from Parks Canada are available through the Ontario Waterways Water Management InfoNet, which provides daily lake and river data across the Trent–Severn Waterway. https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern/info/infonet/point-gestion-eau-water-management-updates
• The Ontario Surface Water Monitoring Centre is the source of current flood and drought information in Ontario. Provides information on potential flood and low water risks in your area, so that you can be prepared. Surface Water Monitoring Centre | ontario.ca
• Follow Township communications for updates on road conditions / closures, sandbags, and emergency situations. Municipal updates and public notices will be posted at Home | Township of North Kawartha
• Please use caution when travelling through the Township as saturated road conditions will delay road maintenance, including pothole repair. Please report any unsafe road conditions, road washouts or water over the road. Citizen Request Portal | Township of North Kawartha
• Flood safety guidance and health resources are available at Flooding | Lakelands Public Health or by calling 1-844-575-4567.
• Check in on neighbours, family members, and those who may need assistance.

Updates and information will also be posted when they become available on the Township website at Home | Township of North Kawartha Thank you for your support and patience as we work through spring weather and road conditions.