While Manitobans rightly anticipate spring after a long winter, experience has shown us that with spring comes the annual concern about flooding. And while a sudden winter storm can change outlooks, currently in Manitoba the risk of widespread major flooding remains low to moderate across most of Manitoba.
However, as a result of less snow cover than past years and cold-winter temperatures, the increased ice thickness means that ice-jams on some rivers and streams will need to be monitored as the break-up occurs. Manitoba maintains one of the best flood monitoring and response capabilities in North America and while current conditions look favorable, past experience shows that it is important to continue to monitor flood conditions throughout the spring.