Manitoba storm: 60 mm of rain could fall next week

A series of rainfall could bring between 40 and 60 millimeters (mm) of rain to Manitoba over the next five to seven days, with some areas likely to receive even more.

The Manitoba government released its latest flood bulletin on Saturday, saying the province will update its water level forecasts to determine the impact of the rain.

The province notes that there will be strong winds in southern and central Manitoba later Saturday and night, with gusts of up to 80 km / h. These winds can raise water levels in flooded areas of the Red River Valley by up to six inches.

The province added that the waves could also temporarily raise water levels and overflow roads.

The Red River is currently near the Emerson Ridge. The Fisher River is close to the crest of the Peguis First Nation and the Fisher River Cree Nation.

Interlake, Red River Valley and other parts of Manitoba continue to experience floods that are concentrated around rivers, streams and drains. Residents are urged to monitor the conditions and take the necessary precautions.

The Manitoba government has said it is on high alert as water levels rise in the Red River Valley. Peak water levels are expected to be close to the 2009 levels of the Red River in Emerson, with slightly lower levels from Letelier to the Red River Floodway entrance.

A number of communities have been affected by high water levels, with residents coping with loss of road access, flooded property and infrastructure damage.

To date, 26 municipalities have declared a local state of emergency and four municipal emergency centers have been established. Flood and high water warnings are also in effect throughout the province.

Provincial Highway 75 is closed north and south of Maurice. The patrols are on site.

Red River Floodway and Portage Diversion continue to work for lower water levels in Winnipeg.

The provincial crews are stationed in a number of communities in Manitoba, where they carry out pumping operations and monitor and enforce the closure of dikes if necessary.

The countryside reminds Manitobans to stay out of the waterways.