Manitoba Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre reports ice is now moving freely through the Red River Floodway control structure and is no longer at risk of flowing into the floodway channel if the floodway gates are raised. Therefore the floodway gates will be operated this morning at 10am.
The water level at James Ave is 15.8 feet, up 1.9 feet since yesterday. With operation of the Red River Floodway, it is estimated that Red River water levels at James Avenue in Winnipeg will rise to approximately 19.1 ft. by Sunday.
Water levels are significantly increasing across much of southern Manitoba, particularly on the Red River tributaries.
People are reminded to be watchful of local waterways, as flood conditions can develop quickly.
Avoid driving through moving water as the water depth can be unpredictable and current can push vehicles off the road.
Since run-off may occur quickly, landowners who normally store a portion of runoff in dugouts for irrigation or other water retention structures are encouraged to retain water.
Homeowners should check their sump pumps and hoses to ensure they are fully functional.
It is strongly advised that people be careful if venturing out onto what may appear to be frozen rivers and lakes, due to potential weak ice conditions.
