Manitoba’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre says spring runoff is beginning to take hold across southern and central parts of the province, bringing rising water levels and increasing flood concerns.
In its second flood bulletin, released Friday, Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure says partial snowmelt is already underway, leading to higher water levels and increased ice movement on rivers and creeks.
A high-water advisory has been issued for the Assiniboine River from the Shellmouth Dam to Portage la Prairie, where levels are expected to continue rising in the coming days. Officials say that flows along the river are partly influenced by operations at the Shellmouth Dam.
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Forecasters say warmer temperatures expected next week will accelerate snowmelt and increase ice movement, raising the risk of ice jam flooding and overland flooding, particularly in the Parkland region.
Runoff is expected to expand early next week across much of central Manitoba, including the Parkland and Interlake regions, as well as the Fisher and Icelandic River basins.
Flood risk continues to build
The latest update comes as flood risk remains a concern in areas already identified as vulnerable, including communities in the Interlake region.
Officials warn that conditions can change quickly during the spring melt, especially if warm weather or rainfall occurs over a short period. Overland flooding remains possible in low-lying areas, particularly where drainage systems are still frozen or blocked.
Manitobans living near rivers, streams, and flood-prone areas are being urged to stay informed and take precautions as conditions evolve.
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as runoff progresses.