An overland flood watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rainfall expected to persist through Saturday. The province’s hydrologic forecast centre announced the watch on Friday, forecasting widespread rainfall ranging from 20 to 40 millimetres for much of southwestern Manitoba, extending north towards the Dauphin area. The most intense rainfall is anticipated west of Brandon, particularly in the Virden and Melita regions, where rainfall totals could reach 50 to 80 millimetres. Some areas may even experience up to 120 millimetres due to severe thunderstorms. Overland flooding may occur with such heavy rainfall over a short period.
The possibility of the heaviest rainfall extending into the Saskatchewan area of the Souris River basin has also been highlighted by the province. Special weather statements were issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for various areas in western Manitoba on Friday, with many remaining in effect in regions surrounding Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park. According to a special weather statement, rain is ongoing in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba, expected to continue throughout the day before tapering off overnight.
In a previous alert at the end of June, the province had issued an overland flood warning for sections of western Manitoba. Several communities in western Manitoba, including Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River, were significantly impacted by heavy storms and flooding earlier this year. Numerous municipalities have declared local states of emergency due to flooding and storm-related issues this year.
As per Environment Canada’s forecast for Winnipeg on Friday afternoon, rain is expected to start around midnight on Saturday and continue through the morning following earlier rainfall. The continual monitoring of the situation in the affected areas is crucial to ensure preparedness and safety.