An overland flood watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rains that started on Friday and are expected to persist into Saturday. The province’s hydrologic forecast centre announced the watch, predicting rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 millimetres across much of southwestern Manitoba, with the possibility of up to 120 millimetres in areas hit by severe thunderstorms.
The most intense rainfall is anticipated west of Brandon, particularly in Virden and Melita, where 50 to 80 millimetres of rain could fall. The province warned that heavy rainfall within a short period might lead to overland flooding. The impact of the heavy rain could extend westward into the Saskatchewan area of the Souris River basin.
Special weather statements were issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for various regions in western Manitoba, including areas around Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park. Rainfall is ongoing in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba, expected to continue through the evening before easing overnight.
A previous overland flood warning had been issued for parts of western Manitoba at the end of June. Many communities in western Manitoba, like Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River, were severely affected by heavy storms and flooding earlier this year. Numerous municipalities have declared local states of emergency due to flooding and storm-related issues.
In Winnipeg, after earlier rain, the forecast called for periods of rain starting around midnight on Saturday and continuing through the morning. The weather situation remains dynamic, with ongoing monitoring and updates expected as the situation evolves.