Flood Warning & Shoreline Hazard Update Extended

The Township of Ramara is advising residents that multiple flood-related alerts that are currently in effect across the region have been extended:

• The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for the Aurora Midhurst Owen Sound District has extended the Watershed Conditions Statement Flood Warning for the district until Friday, May 1, 2026.
• The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) has extended the Shoreline Hazard Watch – HIGH Risk for the Lake Simcoe watershed until May 4, 2026.

These notices apply to areas including Ramara, Severn, Tiny, and Tay, as well as the Severn and Black Rivers (including Washago), Sparrow Lake, Lake St. John, and the Lake Simcoe shoreline.

Current Conditions

Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions are present across the region due to rainfall, snowmelt, and ongoing runoff. Water levels in Lake Simcoe are well above average for this time of year and are expected to remain elevated or increase further.

Shoreline flooding is imminent or occurring, particularly in low-lying areas. Strong and shifting winds are increasing wave action and may result in localized storm surge (seiche) effects, further impacting shorelines.

River flows, particularly along the Severn River system, remain high and fast-flowing, with elevated water levels expected to persist as water continues moving through the watershed.

Potential Impacts

• Flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas
• Shoreline flooding, wave action, and possible storm surge/seiche effects
• Elevated water levels and fast-flowing rivers and streams
• Increased risk of dike overtopping or failure in vulnerable areas
• Impacts to properties near watercourses and shorelines

Safety and Preparedness

Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution around all waterbodies:

• Stay well back from shorelines, rivers, and fast-moving water
• Keep children and pets away from waterways
• Be aware of unstable banks and changing conditions
• Be prepared for localized flooding and take steps to protect property

Residents in historically flood-prone areas should continue to monitor conditions closely and take necessary precautions to secure vulnerable property.

Township crews are actively monitoring conditions and addressing issues where possible. The Township is providing sand and sandbags at the following locations:

Learn more:

https://www.lsrca.on.ca
www.ontario.ca/page/surface-water-monitoring-centre
www.ramara.ca/EmergencyManagement
www.ontario.ca/floods