May 1, 2010
Flood Advisory Issued for Duck and Porcupine Mountain Areas
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre of Manitoba Water Stewardship has issued a flood advisory for the east slopes of the Duck and Porcupine mountains in western Manitoba.
Streams are rising rapidly in response to nearly 100 millimetres of rain during the past two days. Unofficial reports indicate up to 125 mm have fallen on the east slopes of the Duck Mountains.
Many smaller streams and ditches have overflowed and water is standing on fields. It is possible that some smaller roads will be overtopped with possible washouts. However no buildings are threatened.
There is particular concern for the Garland and Duck rivers where over-bank flows are expected in areas where the banks are lower. Crests are likely to occur on smaller streams today and on somewhat larger streams tomorrow.
Municipal officials are aware of the situation and are taking action such as clearing debris jams to reduce the impacts of flooding. Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation regional staff members are monitoring conditions and are in contact with municipal officials.
Some additional precipitation is expected in the area today and Sunday but it will be mostly snow in the higher elevations and unlikely to aggravate the situation.
Heavy rain has also fallen on the north slopes of the Riding Mountain region. Streams in this area will rise significantly but over-bank flows are unlikely. The upper Assiniboine River watershed has also received very significant rain but no difficulties are expected.
Elsewhere in southern Manitoba, the storm system has produced 15 to 30 mm of rain in most areas. While rivers will rise somewhat, there is no concern about flooding.
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