Update #1 State of Emergency - Flood Conditions for April 15, 2026

For Immediate Release                                                               

Minden, Ontario
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
3:30 PM
Release # 26-29

Subject: Update#1 State of Emergency – Flood Conditions for April 15, 2026

The Township of Minden Hills declared a State of Emergency on April 14, 2026 in response to the flood conditions in the community and the escalating impacts to our community and infrastructure. 

The forecast over the next 7 days shows continued warmer temperatures and rainfall. This along with the ongoing snowmelt is increasing water levels across the watershed (rivers, lakes and streams). 

Residents in areas that are susceptible to flooding should take necessary precautions to protect property and continue to monitor developing conditions. 

The Township of Minden Hills Emergency Operations Centre is activated, and meetings are scheduled regularly to discuss the situation and receive updates. Staff continue to work with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and Parks Canada regarding weather impacts and flood conditions. 

Updates will be posted to the Township’s website www.mindenhills.ca and social media channels. Email inquiries related to the flood conditions can be directed to the email or 705-286-1260 ext. 509. 

Road Conditions:

Township Roads continue to be impacted by rising water levels including washouts, water over the roadway, and ponding. There are several road closures and roads with restricted access noted below. Township staff continue to monitor roadways and will provide ongoing updates:

 Roads Closed

• Bobcaygeon Road - Closed from Winding Creek Road to Scotch Line Road
• Milburn Road
• Voicey Road from Blairhampton Road to Tulip Road
• Buller Road at Clear Lake Road
• Anson Street at McKnight - Closed to through traffic, Local traffic only
• Upper Dutch Line Road - Closed to all traffic
• Invergordon Avenue - Closed, access is open through the back entrance of S.G. Nesbit Memorial Arena
• St. Germaine Street from Prince Street to Water Street 

Restricted Access

• Reynolds Road - Water over the road near Duck Lake Road
• Bethel Road - Water over the road near Horseshoe Lake Road and County Road 21
• Orde Street - Water over the road, Local Traffic Only
• Sandy Bay Road - Washed out, limited access, Local Traffic Only
• Salerno Lake Road - Bridge access limited, water over the road
• Ron Road - Water over the road, Local Traffic Only
• Devil’s Lake Road - Water over the road, reduced to one lane
• Hospitality Road - Water over the road, Local Traffic Only
• Denna Lake Road - Water over the road, use caution - Local Traffic Only
• Spring Valley Road - Water over the road near end
• Ritchie Falls Road - Water over the road in multiple locations, use caution
• Sedgwick Road - Water over the Road, Local Traffic Only.  

Avoid driving on any roadways that are underwater, as road conditions may be unstable and dangerous. It is important to note that Local Traffic Only means that only people who reside on the street are to be using that roadway. The infrastructure is in a fragile state, and we need to follow these messages to keep the access available for those that need it. 

Self-Serve Sand and Sandbags

Minden:
Residents are advised that self-serve sand and sandbags are available at the Minden Curling Club Parking Lot, located at 50 Parkside, Minden. 

This resource is self-serve, please remember to bring a shovel. There will be some filled sandbags available on a first come, first served basis at this location. 

Irondale:
Self-serve sand and sandbags are available at the Irondale Community Centre (1004 Line Drive Road, Irondale. This resource is self-serve, please remember to bring a shovel. 

Residents are encouraged to think of their neighbours, don’t forget about those around you that may have difficulty with this task. 

Public Inquiries

We ask the community to direct flood related questions to the Public Inquiry Centre via email or call 705-286-1260 ext. 509. 

The County of Haliburton has developed an information sheet with helpful tips and contact information for available resources. Copies will be available at the Township Municipal Office (7 Milne St., Minden), SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena (55 Prentice St., Minden), all Minden Hills Waste Facilities and County of Haliburton Facilities. 

Safety Reminders

The public is reminded to use caution around area lakes, rivers, creeks and other water sources such as ditches, as high water levels and swift currents can create unstable and hazardous conditions. 

Residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages, exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams, and maintain close supervision of children and pets. 

Visit our website for up-to-date information at www.mindenhills.ca/news.

If you require more information, please contact us at 705-286-1260 or email admin@mindenhills.ca.

-END-

Contact Information:

Cynthia Fletcher, CAO
Township of Minden Hills
PO Box 359, 7 Milne Street
Minden, ON K0M 2K0
Email