An overland flood watch is currently active in portions of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rainfall that started on Friday and is expected to persist into Saturday. The hydrologic forecast center for the province issued the watch, predicting widespread rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 40 millimeters across much of southwestern Manitoba, with an extension northward to the Dauphin area.
The most significant rainfall is anticipated to occur west of Brandon, specifically in the Virden and Melita regions, where precipitation could reach 50 to 80 millimeters. Some areas may experience even higher amounts, up to 120 millimeters, especially if severe thunderstorms hit. Such heavy rainfall over a short period increases the risk of overland flooding.
The possibility of heavy rainfall extending further west into the Saskatchewan area of the Souris River basin has also been highlighted by provincial authorities. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued special weather statements for various western Manitoba regions, with many still in effect as of Friday afternoon, particularly in areas around Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park.
According to the special weather statements, rain is ongoing in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba, with the precipitation expected to persist throughout the day into the evening before diminishing overnight. A previous overland flood warning was issued for western Manitoba at the end of June.
Several communities in western Manitoba, such as Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River, were significantly impacted by heavy storms and flooding earlier this year. Numerous municipalities have declared local states of emergency in response to the flooding and storm events experienced this year.
In Winnipeg, following earlier rainfall, Environment Canada’s forecast for Friday afternoon indicated the likelihood of periodic rain starting around midnight on Saturday and continuing through the morning.