The province has released the first flood outlook for 2019 and it is not looking great.

Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler says the risk of major spring flooding in the Red River Valley is high.

“Early forecasting data shows that we expect to see major flooding along the Red River, with both the Red River Floodway and the Portage Diversion pressed into service,” Schuler said. “Manitoba Infrastructure continues to gather data and work with counterparts in the United States and Saskatchewan to ensure timely information is available.”

If we have normal weather conditions flood levels are expected to be the same as they were in 2011. If, however, we get a late season snow storm, spring rains or a fast snowmelt those levels will rise to levels not seen since 2009.

In 2009 lengthy road closures on Highway 75 and other roads and evacuations of some areas were needed.

The province says that in any event the water levels will be below the flood protection levels of community and individual dikes.

Flows along the Assiniboine and Souris Rivers are also expected to be high.

“March remains a crucial month in terms of snowmelt and weather conditions, and how that will affect the flood forecast going forward,” Schuler added.  “We expect to update Manitobans with more information as updated forecast data becomes available.”