Peguis First Nation declares state of emergency, says evacuations will be required

Piles of sand are pictured at Peguis First Nation on April 16, 2026, as sandbagging efforts are underway to protect the community from a potentially disastrous flood. (Jeff Keele/CTV News Winnipeg)

Peguis First Nation declared a state of emergency on Saturday, adding evacuation of residents will be required.

In a social media video, Chief Dr. Stan Bird said the flood risk is now “a certainty,” based on information as of Saturday morning.

“It is expected to exceed the banks of Fisher River in the coming days. Evacuations of our residents will be required,” he said.

“The information provided this morning is that a flood similar to 2022 could be expected.”

The flooding in 2022 forced about 2,000 residents out and damaged hundreds of homes.

Bird said the severity will depend on whether the temperature will jump to the high teens, adding that recent snowfalls and upcoming precipitation must also be considered.

Bird urged homeowners to allow the crews to complete the protective work, as there is a “strong likelihood” that crews will not return.

The First Nation previously estimated that about 225 homes are in danger.

Bird asked the community not to panic and overwhelm the flood centre with calls.

“An evacuation plan has been developed we are in the final stages of implementing the plan,” he said on Saturday. The plan will be shared with the community once it is finalized.

Emergency numbers will be provided and point of contact will be designated at various evacuee locations, Bird said.

“Everything we could possibly think of is to ensure we avoid the chaos and pandemonium, and that our evacuation is as coordinated and orderly as possible.”

The First Nation continues to monitor the situation and asked community to watch for future updates on Facebook, website and over the radio.

Bird thanked the efforts put by volunteers and community.

“People worked through cold and freezing temperatures; conditions have been far from favourable … it has been a team effort, right from the cooks to the various crews that showed from places like the United States, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario.

“It’s been a massive effort thus far, but the hard work must continue and I want to encourage everyone – continue putting your best foot forward.”

Volunteers from across the country gathered at the First Nation to assist the flood mitigation effort.

The First Nation started to prepare for the flooding last week. The provincial and federal governments said a long-term prevention solution is on the way.

The province previously said runoff is expected to begin this upcoming week across much of central Manitoba.

With files from The Canadian Press and CTV News’ Jon Hendricks, Kayla Rosen and Jeff Keele