Manitoba’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre has released its February Flood Outlook Report, indicating a generally low-to-moderate risk of significant spring flooding across the province, though some regions are facing a heightened potential.
According to the report, while most areas are expected to see manageable spring runoff, the Red, Assiniboine, and Pembina rivers, as well as the Interlake region, including the Fisher and Icelandic rivers, are currently facing a moderate flood risk. Other areas, such as the Roseau, Rat, Saskatchewan, and Churchill rivers, are projected to experience a low risk.
“The spring flood risk is largely dependent on weather conditions from now until the spring melt and throughout the spring,” stated officials from Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure.
The report assures that water levels are expected to remain below community flood protection levels, and most Manitoba lakes are anticipated to stay within desired operating ranges following the spring runoff.
The Red River Floodway and the Portage Diversion are predicted to be operated only under unfavorable weather conditions. Minimal operation of the Portage Diversion may be necessary to mitigate ice-related water level rises on the lower Assiniboine River.
The Shellmouth Reservoir is being managed in collaboration with the Shellmouth liaison committee to balance flood risk reduction downstream on the Assiniboine River with water supply and recreational needs.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure is actively engaged in standard spring ice-cutting and breaking operations to minimize the risk of ice-jam-related flooding. Ice-cutting is currently underway on the Red River, with work on the Icelandic River to commence once the Red River breaking is completed.
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