Manitoba Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre reports overland flooding and tributary flows have started to subside across parts of southern Manitoba.
Flows on waterways across the province are continuing to react to the run-off from the melt and water levels remain high on many waterways. Ice has moved out on some rivers but remains in place on others including portions of the lower Assiniboine River and northern Manitoba. Ice jams are still possible and are difficult to predict.
A small amount of snowpack remains in the western part of the Souris River basin, the Parkland region, the Duck Mountain area, western part of the Riding Mountain and northern Manitoba.
The flood warning has been lifted for the Morris River and the flood watch has been lifted for the La Salle River as they have both crested and flows are decreasing. The Roseau River has also crested.
The Red River in Winnipeg has crested and water levels at James Avenue were measured at 18.3 feet this morning. With the floodway in operation, water levels at James Avenue are expected to remain around 18 ft. for the next week as flows on the Red River recede and flows on the Assiniboine River increase.
Ice surges into the Portage Diversion reservoir caused fluctuating levels downstream on the lower Assiniboine River yesterday. A flood watch remains in effect for the area between Portage la Prairie and Headingley as flows on the lower Assiniboine River could gradually increase to about 12,000 cubic feet per second by the weekend.
A flood watch remains in effect for the Red Deer River and Plum Creek.
A flood warning remains in effect for the Birdtail Creek, upper Assiniboine River from the Shellmouth Dam to Holland, Pelican, Rock and Oak lakes, and the Pembina and Souris rivers. A flood warning has been issued for Dauphin Lake.
Outflows from Pelican Lake are at maximum possible discharge. Inflows to the lake are close to cresting. However, there is still a large volume of water to come and the lake is projected to rise high enough that flood protection will be required for properties around the lake.
A flood warning has been issued for all points along the Souris River. Flows on the main stem of the Souris River in Manitoba and the U.S. are continuing to react to the run-off from the melt while tributaries of the Souris River are beginning to decrease.
A high water advisory remains in effect for the Carrot River due to significant flows upstream in Saskatchewan. Water levels are approaching record highs at the Smoky Burn gauge in Saskatchewan. Flows on the Carrot River within Manitoba are influenced by upstream Carrot River flows and water levels on the Saskatchewan River where the two rivers meet. Conditions will be monitored as water levels on the Saskatchewan River remain low. Ice jamming on both rivers is a concern as ice remains intact in Manitoba. The backwater effect of ice jamming will influence water levels on the Carrot River.
Homeowners affected by this spring’s flooding are reminded to review their home insurance. Overland flood insurance was introduced by some insurers in Manitoba in 2016.
High water levels have led to a number of road closures across the province. People are reminded to be watchful of local waterways, as flood conditions can develop quickly. Ditches and culverts contain fast-moving water which could be hazardous and should be avoided.
Avoid driving through moving water as the water depth can be unpredictable and the current can push vehicles off the road. 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.
