An overland flood watch has been put in place for regions of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rainfall over Friday and expected to persist into Saturday. The hydrologic forecast center of the province issued this watch on Friday, predicting widespread rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 40 millimeters for much of southwestern Manitoba, with an extension toward the Dauphin area.
The Manitoba government indicated in a news release on Friday afternoon that the most substantial rainfall is anticipated to occur west of Brandon, particularly in the Virden and Melita areas. These regions could experience between 50 to 80 millimeters of rainfall, with localized severe thunderstorms potentially receiving up to 120 millimeters. Intense rainfall within a short timeframe can lead to overland flooding.
The heaviest rainfall might also move westward into the Saskatchewan area of the Souris River basin, as stated by the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada released special weather statements for various locations in western Manitoba on Friday, with many remaining in effect around Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park into the afternoon.
According to a special weather statement, rain is ongoing in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba, with the expectation that it will persist through the day and into the evening before easing off overnight. The province had previously issued an overland flood warning for portions of western Manitoba at the end of June.
Numerous communities in western Manitoba endured severe storms and flooding earlier this year. Parkland areas like Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River were particularly impacted. Several municipalities have declared local states of emergency related to flooding and storms in the current year.
Following earlier rainfall in the day, Environment Canada’s forecast for Winnipeg on Friday afternoon indicated periods of rain starting around midnight Saturday and continuing through the morning.