According to modelling from the provincial government, the Red River south of Winnipeg is about one week away from its predicted flood crest.
The river level is steadily rising right now by approximately a quarter-foot per day, with a forecasted crest approximately three to four feet higher than last year.
The most visible flood mitigation measure so far is the ring dike around St. Adolphe. A four-foot berm has been erected overtop Highway 200 on the north side of the town, although the road isn’t closed and vehicles are still able to cross through the area for now.
Residents in the RM of Ritchot who are affected by rising floodwaters can access sandbags through the municipality, which has secured a stockpile of 400,000 bags. However, the RM has warned that social distancing measures currently in effect could reduce the effectiveness of sandbags this spring. The municipality’s website features a list of contractors who can be contacted to close off ring dikes with clay and earth.
“The municipality is monitoring the Red River and our roadways daily,” reads a notice from the RM. “Those residents who are at risk of rising floodwaters will be contacted before their access to provincial or municipal roads are compromised.”
Due to the province’s current focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been announced that provincial authorities will not be involved in any evacuations this year. Instead residents are asked to follow one of three protocols: (1) shelter in place, (2) evacuate to family and friends, or (3) evacuate to a hotel. Meals and hotel expenses, should they become necessary, will be taken at the residents’ expense.
However, those who do not have the financial meals to cover such expenses may ask the RM to apply on their behalf to Manitoba Emergency Social Services. Decisions will be made on a case by case basis.
Several road closures are in effect as the waters rise, including portions of Crown Valley Road, Courchaine Road, Alarie Road, Levesque Road, Prefontaine Road, and Meyers Road. The La Salle Bridge is also closed along Waverley. Many of these closures are common at this time of year regardless of flood levels, due to them being in low-lying areas.