An overland flood watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rainfall expected to persist into Saturday. The hydrologic forecast centre of the province announced the watch, forecasting widespread rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 40 millimetres for much of southwestern Manitoba and extending towards the Dauphin area.
The Manitoba government stated in a news release on Friday that the most intense rainfall is anticipated west of Brandon, specifically in the Virden and Melita regions. These areas may experience 50 to 80 millimetres of rainfall, with localized severe thunderstorms potentially causing up to 120 millimetres of rainfall. Such heavy rainfall over a short duration can lead to overland flooding.
The heavy rainfall could also affect the Saskatchewan area within the Souris River basin, according to the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada issued special weather statements for various regions in western Manitoba on Friday, with many remaining in effect in places around Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park.
Special weather statements indicated ongoing rain in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba. The rain is expected to persist throughout the day until evening before diminishing overnight. A previous overland flood warning was issued for sections of western Manitoba at the end of June.
Numerous communities in western Manitoba experienced severe storms and flooding earlier this year, with areas like Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River being significantly impacted. Several municipalities have declared local states of emergency in response to the flooding and storms this year.
Following earlier rainfall, Environment Canada’s forecast for Winnipeg on Friday afternoon predicted periods of rain starting around midnight on Saturday and continuing through the morning.