The community of Rivers received some positive news on Friday as water levels at the Rivers Dam dropped, but the province warns the forecast is calling for more rain over the next few days.
Widespread precipitation is forecast for most southern, southwest and southeast Manitoba watersheds for the next five to seven days. Occasional heavy thunderstorms could develop and bring up to 100 mm of heavy localized rain, which could lead to localized overland flooding.
— Ron Schuler (@Min_Schuler) July 3, 2020
Earlier this week, around 80 people evacuated from the community after the province expressed doubts that the 60-year-old dam would hold in light of historic water levels.
In the event that the Rivers Dam fails, the province has projected Brandon could see the worst-case peak levels, similar to the spring flood of 2011.
The dam is being continuously monitored by Manitoba Infrastructure, making repairs as needed.
Brandon has not ordered any evacuations, but the City has handed out evacuation preparation notices to nearly 800 homes and 100 businesses, urging them to be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Earlier this week, Minnedosa and the surrounding R.M. of Minto-Odanah declared states of emergencies after the heavy rain led to washed-out roads, and flooded homes and businesses.
The Town of Neepawa has had three evacuations after declaring a state of emergency. Smaller communities just east of Neepawa, like Arden and Gladstone, are also monitoring high water levels on the Whitemud River.
It appears Manitobans in areas dealing with high water levels aren’t out of the deep waters just yet.
More thunderstorms are in the forecast, which the province says could bring up to 100 millimetres of rain over the next five to seven days to some of the most affected areas.
