Temperatures are again dropping below zero from Wednesday until Saturday, slowing the melting process. Because of these lower temperatures, levels along the Red River are expected to be equal or slightly lower than 2011 flood level.
The Red River Floodway is expected to be operated between April 12 and 14. Provincial crews are deployed in a number of communities in the Red River Valley preparing for potential ring dike closures. A partial ring dike closure is currently underway at Emerson but the community remains accessible by road. The crest of the Red River is expected in Emerson between April 16 and 19, and Winnipeg between April 20 to 23.
The precipitation system also missed most of the Assiniboine, Qu’Appelle and the Souris river basins. Because of this, the rivers have peaked, except for a couple of locations where the river is near peak.
A flood warning has been issued for the Red River from Emerson to the Red River Floodway channel inlet.
A flood watch has been issued for Roseau River.
A flood warning is issued when river or lake levels are exceeding or are expected to be exceed flood stage within the next 24 hours. A flood watch is issued when river or lake levels are approaching and likely to reach flood stage, but likely not within the next 24 hours.
A high water advisory is issued when a heavy storm or high flows are expected and may cause water levels to rise, but not necessarily reach flood stage. A high water advisory can be an early indicator for conditions that may develop into a flood watch or flood warning.
Property owners are reminded to protect wells as high water rolls through the Manitoba portion of the Red River Valley.
