An overland flood watch has been put in place for sections of southwestern Manitoba due to heavy rainfall that started on Friday and is expected to persist into Saturday.
The province’s hydrologic forecast center issued the watch, forecasting widespread rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 40 millimeters for much of southwestern Manitoba, with the potential for heavier rain extending north towards the Dauphin area.
The most intense rainfall is anticipated to occur west of Brandon, specifically in areas like Virden and Melita. The Manitoba government stated that these areas might receive between 50 and 80 millimeters of rainfall, with localized severe thunderstorms possibly bringing up to 120 millimeters.
Intense rainfall within a short timeframe can lead to overland flooding, with the possibility of the heaviest rain extending westward into the Saskatchewan area of the Souris River basin, as mentioned by the province.
Environment and Climate Change Canada released special weather statements for various regions in western Manitoba on Friday, with some remaining in effect in areas surrounding Dauphin and Riding Mountain National Park.
According to a special weather statement, rain is ongoing in southeastern Saskatchewan and parts of western Manitoba. The rain is expected to persist throughout the day before easing off overnight.
In late June, the province had issued a prior overland flood warning for parts of western Manitoba due to similar weather conditions.
Numerous communities in western Manitoba experienced heavy storms and flooding earlier this year, with Parkland communities such as Dauphin, Minitonas, and Swan River among the most impacted.
Many municipalities have declared local states of emergency in response to flooding and storm-related incidents this year.
Following earlier rain, Environment Canada’s forecast for Winnipeg on Friday afternoon predicted periods of rain starting around midnight on Saturday and continuing into the morning hours.