Weather and effects: 1)Ice jams, rapid melt trigger safety warnings across Lake Simcoe watershed; 2) WEATHER FORECAST – Extreme caution around all bodies of water
Courtesy Barrie360.com and News Release
By Barrie 360 Staff, March 6, 2026
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) is warning residents to use “extreme caution” around all bodies of water as quickly rising temperatures, significant ice buildup, and accelerated melting combine to create hazardous conditions across the watershed.
“Families and pet owners are urged to keep a safe distance from shorelines, riverbanks, and any ice-covered areas.”
Rapid warmup increases risk of ice jams and flooding
After a winter defined by heavy snowfall and thick ice, forecasters expect temperatures to climb into the mid-teens over the coming days, along with rainfall. According to the LSRCA, the weather shift will speed up melting and significantly increase the likelihood of ice jams—blockages that occur when large chunks of ice lodge in narrow river sections.
“When this occurs, water can rise quickly behind the jam, leading to localized flooding, bank erosion, and sudden changes in water levels,” the agency said.
Even if a waterbody still appears frozen, the LSRCA notes that ice is now weakening, breaking apart, and shifting unpredictably. “Even stable-looking areas can shift suddenly, posing risks for anyone nearby,” the release stated.
Hidden dangers: unstable banks and cold water
Beyond the flood risk, the LSRCA warns that riverbanks may become slippery and unstable as snow melts, and cold-water temperatures can greatly increase danger during an emergency.
“Ice that once appeared solid may now be hollow, fractured, or detached from shore,” officials said.
The agency is asking all residents—especially those living close to waterways—to remain vigilant, monitor flood messages, and keep children and pets away from all water’s edges.
Spring safety reminders
The LSRCA lists several key steps for staying safe during the spring melt:
- Check lsrca.on.ca for flood messaging.
- Keep children and pets away from waterways.
- Avoid recreation near ice jams, ice‑covered rivers, or partially frozen waterbodies.
- Never walk on ice-covered waterbodies or drive through flooded or fast-moving water.
- Move outdoor items away from shorelines.
- Stay off riverbanks, which may be unstable.
- If someone or a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt a rescue—call 911 immediately.
More information can be found at the LSRCA’s Flood Preparedness webpage.
Weather & Storm Watch
Dark Thunder Storm
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RAINFALL WARNING (YELLOW)
Barrie – Collingwood – Hillsdale
Bracebridge – Gravenhurst
Fenelon Falls – Balsam Lake Park – northern Kawartha Lakes
Haliburton – Minden – southern Haliburton County
Huntsville – Baysville
Innisfil – New Tecumseth – Angus
Lindsay – southern Kawartha Lakes
Midland – Coldwater – Orr Lake
Newmarket – Georgina – northern York Region
Orillia – Lagoon City – Washago
Port Carling – Port Severn
Owen Sound – Blue Mountains – northern Grey County
Impact Level: Moderate
Forecast Confidence: High
Rainfall, combined with melting snow, is expected. The frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall.
What:
Rainfall amounts of 15 to 40 mm with locally higher amounts possible due to thunderstorms.
Substantial snow melt contributing to ponding on roads and low lying areas.
When:
Beginning late this afternoon or early this evening and ending Saturday evening.
Additional information:
Several rounds of showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected with the first expected to move into Ontario this evening. The rain combined with mild temperatures will likely melt much of the significant snowpack and lead to additional runoff.
Water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas.
Don’t drive through flooded roadways. Watch for washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts.