Flood risk high for Red River Valley

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This article was published 28/02/2019 (2657 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler warned Thursday morning there is a high risk of major flooding this spring in the Red River Valley, as he shared the province’s first flood forecast of the year.

With normal weather conditions, the province said levels on the Red River south of the Winnipeg floodway are expected to be near 2011 levels. Unfavourable weather conditions, including late season snow, spring rains and a more rapid snowmelt, would bring Red River levels comparable to the 2009 levels, which saw extended road closures of Highway 75 and other roads, and evacuations in some areas.

Schuler noted water levels will remain below the flood protection levels of community and individual dikes. However, partial closure of some community dikes may be required to maintain local access. He acknowledged that flood mitigation work around the Town of Morris has yet to be completed, which could possibly still result in the closure of Highway 75.

Below-normal temperatures are expected in March and April, further delaying snowmelt, Schuler noted, with the risk of spring rains occurring at the same time. Ice is also expected to be thicker, increasing the risk of ice-jam flooding.

“A lot of this is going to be weather dependent,” said Schuler, who advised further updates would be provided as new forecast data becomes available.

More information about flooding and how to prepare for an emergency situation is available at www.gov.mb.ca/flooding.