KAWARTHA LAKES-The City of Kawartha Lakes says it’s time to prepare for the spring thaw and the potential flooding it can cause.
Flooding is unpredictable and is caused by a variety of weather factors. Being prepared helps to ease the stress and damage that can be caused by high water levels. As snow melts, some areas are prone to high water levels, and residents in flood-prone zones are encouraged to prepare.
The City says Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue and Kawartha Lakes staff are in regular contact with Kawartha Conservation, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Trent-Severn Waterway. Messages about the current state of waterways, expected changes in water levels and instructions for public safety are communicated through a variety of outlets including City website and social media channels, and Municipal511 for road closures.
Sandbag information
To assist with flood preparedness, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue and Public Works have provided free sandbags at the following locations:
Fill-your-own sandbags (bring a shovel)
- Ward Park Norland Community Centre (7675 Highway 35 North, Norland)
- Dalton Community Centre (13 Rumohr Drive, Sebright)
- Chisholm Trail (South of Black River Road near Amon Drive)
- Dunsford Community Centre (26 Community Centre Rd, Dunsford)
Supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis; please only take what you need to protect your home.
Sandbag use reminders
- Sandbags are only effective if you stack them correctly (with edges overlapping in a brick pattern) before your property is threatened by water or debris.
- Do not make a dam in an attempt to stop water.
- Use sandbags in front of windows and doors and think of ways to redirect the water toward areas of your property where it can drain off naturally without damaging anything.
Flood watch and safety advisory
As of March 10, 2026, Kawartha Conservation issued a Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Watch due to rising water levels from rain and snowmelt. Streams, rivers, and lakes are dangerous with high water levels and ice instability. Residents with waterfront properties should prepare for elevated water and potential flooding.
Read the Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Watch from March 10.
