05/23/2026
⚠️ WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT - WATER SAFETY & SHORELINE HAZARD WATCH – HIGH RISK UPDATE ⚠️
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
Rainfall is forecast for the Lake Simcoe watershed this afternoon and into tomorrow, with possible rainfall accumulations of approximately 50 mm.
While widespread flooding is not expected, localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Watercourses will be flowing higher than normal, making streams and rivers dangerous, especially near culverts and bridges. Children and pets should be kept away from all watercourses.
This Watershed Conditions Statement remains in effect through Monday, May 25th, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
SHORELINE HAZARD WATCH – HIGH RISK - Update
Water levels in Lake Simcoe are currently 219.24 m, approximately 13 cm above average for this time of year.
Although lake levels have slowly declined over the past two weeks and outflows from Lake Simcoe have been maximized, forecasts suggest up to 50 mm of additional rainfall across the watershed today and tomorrow. Shoreline flooding is already occurring in low-lying areas and water levels are expected to rise further with additional precipitation.
Southeasterly winds of 30–38 km/hr with gusts up to 70 km/hr are forecast today before easing Monday. Strong winds combined with high lake levels are increasing wave action and shoreline flooding risks.
Flooding is occurring in low-lying shoreline areas including Innisfil, Georgina, Ramara, Barrie, and Orillia. There is a high risk of dikes overtopping in the Keswick, Colbar, and Bradford polders, and breaches have been reported in East Gwillimbury. Localized storm surge/seiche effects may also increase flooding depending on wind conditions.
Please exercise extreme caution around all bodies of water. Residents in historically flood-prone areas should take precautions to protect themselves, pets, and property. Sandbagging may be required in low-lying shoreline areas.
This Shoreline Hazard Watch – High Risk remains in effect through June 12th, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., or until otherwise updated.
For more information visit: www.lsrca.on.ca