Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation advises the Red River Floodway gates will be raised at 6 p.m. today. The Floodway Operations Advisory Committee has been advised and consulted about floodway operations.
As of 8 a.m., the level upstream of the floodway was 750.7 feet above sea level. Levels upstream of the floodway rose 6.6 ft. in the last 24-hour period. Levels upstream of the floodway are expected to continue to rise at a similar rate as yesterday due to increasing flows from tributaries.
The level at James Avenue in Winnipeg was 14.2 ft. as of 8 a.m. this morning. James Avenue water levels could reach 16.5 to 17.5 ft. by tomorrow morning.
In accordance with floodway operating rules, the horn will be sounded at the inlet control structure at 5:30 p.m., 30 minutes before operation of the gates.
Boaters should avoid using any waterways until all ice has cleared and river levels return to normal. Navigation is restricted south of Winnipeg due to operation of the gates. There is also the potential for turbulent waters at or near the outlet structure north of Winnipeg. Boaters are advised to avoid travel in the vicinity of the floodway and any other water control structure.
As the spring melt continues, ice conditions will be unsafe and turbulent flows may be encountered.
People are reminded to stay away from ice and fast-running water. Do not attempt to drive or walk through fast moving water. Before travelling, check road conditions by calling 511.
