According to Manitoba’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre (HFC) flooding of the Red River Valley should sit at or marginally above 2009 levels with normal to unfavorable weather in the coming weeks. Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler says there’s also still a moderate risk of flooding along the Assiniboine River.
This is the second outlook of the year by the province, and the HFC notes that with favourable weather, slightly less than 2009 flood levels on the Red River can be expected. A provincial news release states that with the use of the floodway, water levels at James Avenue in Winnipeg could reach 20.5 feet with unfavourable weather.
At this time, the peak at Emerson is expected between April 12 and 23 depending on the rate of the snowmelt and water movement, along with temperatures on both sides of the border. Flood water levels will still be influenced by the rate of snowmelt and future snow and rain accumulation, the province says.
“Manitoba Infrastructure continues to make preparations for high water and is working with municipalities to ensure they have the information and support needed for a flood of this magnitude,” Schuler says. “The Red River will once again carry a significant amount of water north, requiring the operation of the Red River Floodway and additional measures taken in partnership with local municipalities.”
Flooding on the Assiniboine and Souris rivers is expected to be moderate with low-lying areas and agricultural lands inundated, but levels will be below the top of community dikes. The Portage Diversion will likely be operated, the province says.
“We are also working with the agricultural producers to ensure livestock is moved out of the impacted areas,” he says.
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