Minden Hills resident James Smith loaded as many sandbags as he could onto a trailer outside the Minden Curling Club April 14.
He lives on the Burnt River.
“The river side is higher than it’s ever been, and I’m worried because the water actually gets into our house from the back side of our property. This is the first time we’ve had water this high on the property and it’s actually coming into the house,” he told The Highlander.
He said the previous owners built a berm and the water has now breached it.
“I know we’re going to get through it. It is a temporary inconvenience.”
The Township of Minden Hills declared a state of emergency April 14 in response to flood conditions, and the escalating impact to community and infrastructure. The decision came as the water level on the Gull River increased, and continued rain and warmer temperatures are expected over the next five to 10 days.
Levels on the Burnt and Irondale rivers, along with many County lakes, are also high.
There is water over numerous roads. Voicey Road was closed between Tulip and Blairhampton roads, Buller Road was closed at Clear Lake Road; and Boyd Road was closed at Brady Lake Road. There were restrictions on Invergordon Avenue, with access available through the arena back entrance; Anson Street, McKnight Boulevard, Orde Street and Hospitality Road; Devil’s Lake Road was reduced to one lane to local traffic only; Upper Dutch Line Road had washouts.
On April 13, a portion of Bobcaygeon Road from Winding Creek Road to Scotch Line Road, was closed to through traffic due to localized flooding and washout.
The township advised people not to drive through washouts or flooded areas as these conditions may be unstable and dangerous.
Sandbags available for residents
The municipality also said April 14 that the Minden sewage treatment system was receiving higher than normal flows, exceeding the capacity of the system. The Ontario Clean Water Agency, the township’s wastewater operator, commenced bypass procedures. Sewage had to be pumped to the Gull River from the sewage pumping station 1 at 27 Orde St. The township said the spill was initiated to reduce the risk of sewage backups into private property. “The impact … will be minimal given the dilution from the significant rainfall event, however residents drawing water downstream of the Orde Street sewage pumping station should take precautions, using proper filtration and disinfection systems before consuming the water.”
Minden mayor Bob Carter asked the public to “stay alert, stay in contact with our website, we will have the latest information available there.”
MNR: ‘particular concern for the Gull River’
The Ministry of Natural Resources issued a flood warning until April 22, saying developing conditions will affect residents of Haliburton County – with particular concern for the Gull River in Minden.
The warning means flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
“Residents and visitors should expect lake water levels to continue to rise and river flows to remain high throughout the week of April 13-17 and into the weekend of April 18-19,” the ministry said.
Runoff into local lakes and rivers is expected to increase due to rain and warming temperatures contributing to higher lake water levels and river flows.
“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,” the MNR said.
It added, “residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should continue to take necessary action to protect and secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.”
The township has filled sandbags, and self-serve sand (bring a shovel) is available at the Minden Curling Club (50 Prentice St., Minden) parking lot. The army cadets volunteered to fill bags. They said they would have up-todate information at www.mindenhills.ca/news.
The township also encouraged people to check their sump pumps to make sure they are working, that the pit is clear of debris and all electrical connections are plugged in correctly. Make sure that it is directed to a high point on your property that doesn’t redirect back into the home.
OPP Central Region Headquarters also issued a warning April 14, reminding drivers wet roads, reduced visibility, pooling water, localized flooding, and the potential for dense fog in some areas can make driving hazardous when conditions can change quickly.
Significant rainfall is expected to persist over the coming days, increasing the risk of water collecting on roadways, washouts, debris, and sudden road closures. These conditions may develop rapidly and can be difficult to predict, particularly in rural areas.”
Before leaving home, they encouraged drivers to check current road conditions, closures, and travel advisories through 511on.ca and municipal511.ca, monitor localized weather forecasts through The Weather Network, and follow OPP Central Region social media channels for timely updates on active road closures.
