Manitoba releases updated spring flooding outlook

Manitoba’s spring flood outlook is projecting a moderate to major flood risk for the Fisher River.

Provincial forecasters are predicting a low to moderate risk of flooding for most Manitoba rivers as the spring runoff begins, although the risk is higher for one region.

According to the province’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre on Friday, the risk of spring flooding currently is at the low-to-moderate level for most Manitoba rivers, except for the Fisher River basin in the Interlake region, which has moderate to major risk due to snow accumulations above the seasonal average.

The report said spring flood risk is dependent on weather conditions from now until the melt period begins.

Most Manitoba lakes are currently at a low flooding risk, according to the report.

Ice cutting and ice breaking activities are finished along the Red River and Icelandic rivers. The province said the Red River Floodway is not expected to be operated under normal or favourable weather conditions, but may run if unfavourable conditions occur to help with water levels in Winnipeg.

The province added it is reviewing emergency plans with communities ahead of flood season.