The Town of Bracebridge and the Town of Huntsville have each declared a state of emergency as water levels continue to rise in the Muskoka area.

“As a result of continuing rising water levels, Mayor Graydon Smith has declared an emergency under the Emergency Management & Civil Protection Act,” Bracebridge said in a release issued Friday afternoon.

Localized flooding has already occurred in low-lying areas and The Ministry of Natural Resources has advised that water levels are expected to continue rising, the town said.

The flooding is due to rising waters on the Muskoka River, Black River and Big East River following heavy rains.

Both towns are advising parents to keep their children away from open waters, creeks and rivers, while home owners are being warned to take precautions to prevent injury or damage to property in low-lying areas.

Motorists are also being warned to be cautious on roads that may have become flooded. It may be difficult in some places for motorists to see that a road has been washed out, officials said.

At least a dozen roads are already either flooded or closed off to traffic throughout the area.

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