Minden, Ont., declares state of emergency after massive flooding

Published on Apr. 15, 2026, 1:06 PM

Township says water level on the Gull River is increasing as forecast calls for more rain

Minden Hills Ont., a small town in Haliburton County, has closed down roads and declared a state of emergency in response to flood conditions in the community.

The township declared a state of emergency Tuesday at 2:00 p.m., citing an increasing level of water on its Gull River — which flows directly through the town — and more rainy, warmer weather forecasted for the next five to 10 days.

The Haliburton Highlands OPP were advisising the public of flooding in the area around the Gull River downtown Minden, Ont. on Tuesdday. (Courtesy: OPP, Central Region/Facebook)

"Residents in areas that are susceptible to flooding should take necessary precautions to protect property and continue to monitor developing conditions," the town said in a statement posted online.

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The rising water levels have already shut down some roads, with the town warning residents that washouts, water over the roadway and ponding could occur.

Residents will be able to get sandbags at a self-serve station in the town and are advised to keep a "close watch on weather conditions."

The Ontario Flood Map above shows where warnings were in effect as of 7 p.m. on Apr. 14, 2026. (Province of Ontario)

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"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," the town's announcement said.

Municipalities are required under Ontario's Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to "develop and implement an emergency management program."

Rising water levels on the Gull River, which flows right through Minden Hills, Ont., prompted the township to declare a state of emergency. (Submitted to CBC by Shauna Boshier)

When a municipality declares a state of emergency under the act, it is able to exercise more power, which can include regulating or prohibiting travel, closing down public or private establishments, and getting additional assistance and resources from other levels of government.

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This article was originally published for CBC News on April 14. Header image courtesy of Bob Carter/Township of Minden Hills via CBC News.