The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority issued a water safety notice on March 17, 2026, for residents in Collingwood, Ontario, due to changing river conditions. The authority is advising people to avoid riverbanks and shorelines as the region experiences early spring snowmelt and runoff.
While officials say no major flooding is expected, the notice warns that runoff from rain and melting snow has made local streams and rivers hazardous. These risks are highest near man-made structures such as culverts, bridges, and dams where water moves quickly and can be unpredictable.
This safety statement is a downgrade from a previous alert level but still highlights the danger of unstable terrain and fast-moving water. Parents and pet owners are urged to keep children and animals away from all local watercourses to prevent accidents during this period.
The notice remains in effect until the end of the day on March 20, 2026. William Flavelle, the flood duty officer for the authority, issued the statement to help the community stay safe as the region navigates the seasonal transition of the spring season.
