Manitoba’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre’s spring flood outlook reports the risk of moderate to major flooding in most southern Manitoba basins is dependent on weather conditions from now until the spring melt.
“Our government continuously monitors all watershed conditions across the province to remain vigilant and ready to respond to ensure that all Manitobans are protected should there be a risk for flood conditions,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk. “The Hydrologic Forecast Centre monitors river flows and lake levels daily throughout the year, and we work in collaboration with municipalities and communities to best prepare for potential flood mitigation operations.”
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre advises that, while there is a risk of major flooding along the Red River and its tributaries, including the Roseau, Rat and Pembina rivers, water levels are expected to remain below community flood protection levels at all locations. There is also a risk of moderate flooding for most other southern Manitoba basins including the Assiniboine and Souris rivers and the Whiteshell lakes area. The risk of spring flooding is low for the Interlake region and northern Manitoba regions.
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre also reports that operation of the Red River Floodway is expected this spring to reduce water levels within the city of Winnipeg with some operation of the Portage Diversion anticipated to prevent ice jamming on the Assiniboine River, the minister noted.
The next flood outlook will be released late March.
