Manitoba Water Stewardship has issued a flood warning for the portion of the Interlake region from Gypsumville to Grand Rapids. A flood watch has also been issued for the Duck Mountain area of western Manitoba. A flood watch continues for the southern Interlake region.
The warning and watches are for more heavy rain expected today and early Saturday .
A strong storm system moving northeastward across Manitoba has already brought 50 millimetres of rain or more to areas just north of Ashern, the Gypsumville area and to a narrow area from Oak Point to near Arborg. Environment Canada indicates that additional rainfall of 25 to 50 mm is likely in the southern Interlake and an additional 50 to 100 mm is possible from Gypsumville north to Grand Rapids. The eastern slopes of the Duck Mountains could receive 50 to 75 mm.
The Interlake and portions of the Westman region have received above-average rainfall already this summer which has resulted in saturated soils and standing water. The additional rain from this storm could produce more run-off and extensive overland flooding of low-lying areas.
Flooding of homes is not anticipated but groundwater seepage into basements is likely to become an increasing concern in many areas of the Interlake. Ditches and small streams could overflow, especially if more thunderstorms develop. Larger streams such as the Icelandic and Fisher rivers should remain within their banks.
The heavy rain will cause additional rises on lakes in the Interlake. Flooding of low-lying lands near the lakes could occur due to a combination of high lake levels, winds and wave action. Residents of the Interlake area are advised to take whatever precautions may be appropriate to protect properties from flooding.
Brief over-bank flows could develop on streams flowing off the east slopes of the Duck Mountains early Saturday.
A flood warning for the Winnipeg River issued on July 22 remains in effect due to unusually high river flows and levels. While levels on the river have declined, they are still above average so the warning will continue at least until the end of August.
The latest information on water levels is available at:
