Spring flood risk low to moderate in Manitoba: Report

Glacier FarmMedia | MarketsFarm — Most of Manitoba is at a low to moderate risk of spring flooding this year, according to the latest outlook from the province’s Transportation and Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre.

Risk weather dependent

Spring flood risk is largely dependent on weather conditions from now until the spring melt and throughout the spring.

Currently, there is a moderate risk of flooding along the Red, Assiniboine and Pembina rivers and in the Interlake region including the Fisher and Icelandic rivers.

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The risk of spring flooding is low along several other rivers, including the Roseau, Rat, Saskatchewan and Churchill rivers. Water levels are expected to remain below community flood protection levels. The risk of flooding is low for most Manitoba lakes throughout the spring period. Most lakes are expected to be within the desired operating ranges after the spring runoff.

Floodway operation unlikely

The Red River Floodway and the Portage Diversion are only expected to be operated under unfavourable weather conditions. Additionally, minimal operation of the Portage Diversion may be necessary to mitigate ice-related water level rises on the lower Assiniboine River (from Portage la Prairie to Winnipeg).

The Shellmouth Reservoir is being operated in consultation with the Shellmouth liaison committee to reduce the risk of flooding downstream on the Assiniboine River, while also providing sufficient storage for water supply and recreation.

Ice cutting underway

Normal spring ice-cutting and breaking work along rivers to reduce ice-jam related flooding is underway.

The Manitoba government, local authorities and First Nations communities are proactively preparing for any spring flooding. This includes reviewing emergency plans, information sharing between governments and preparing resources used in flood responses.

The full 2025 spring flood outlook report is available at: www.gov.mb.ca/floodinfo/pdf/2025/february_2025_flood_outlook_report.pdf.

The next flood outlook is anticipated to be released in late March.