NFN – Flood Watch in Effect: Stay Safe Around Water

Press Release

April 15, 2026

The Ministry of Natural Resources – North Bay District has issued a Flood Watch. This means flooding is possible. Residents should pay close attention to changing conditions and use caution near all water.

Read the full Flood Watch notice from the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The NFN Public Works team continues to respond to culvert and road repairs to ensure public safety. NFN Emergency Services is prepared to respond in the event of flooding with sand bags in the event of high water.
Weather Conditions

The area has had heavy rain in the past 48 hours, with more rain possible this week. Temperatures are above freezing and will rise into the double digits until Sunday. This warm weather and rain speed up snowmelt.
Current Conditions

Spring freshet (snow melting and flowing into rivers and lakes) is underway. Water levels and river flows are rising, especially in central and southern areas of the district. Northern areas are near normal for this time of year, but water is still increasing. The ground is thawing but very wet and cannot absorb much water. Lake and river ice is breaking up and is unsafe. Homes, docks, and boathouses in low-lying or flood-prone areas may be at risk.

Safety Tips

• Stay away from fast-moving or high water
• Supervise children and pets near water
• Avoid shorelines and riverbanks; they are slippery and unstable
• Stay off lakes and rivers; ice is not safe

Protect Your Home

• Clear debris from gutters, eavestroughs, and downspouts
• Check your sump pump (a pump that removes water from basements) and keep it working
• Consider backup power, such as a battery or generator

Power Safety (Hydro One Customers)

• If water reaches electrical outlets, baseboard heaters, or your furnace, call Hydro One at 1-800-434-1236 to have the power turned off safely.

Be Prepared

• Restock your emergency kit
• Monitor conditions closely if you live in a low-lying or flood-prone area

Stay Up to Date and Monitor Conditions

• Surface Water Monitoring Centre: www.ontario.ca/page/surface-water-monitoring-centre
• Environment Canada Bulletins: www.weather.gc.ca
• Ontario Flood Map: Flood Forecasting and Warning Program

More updates will be shared as conditions change.

ILR4