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2012 flood forecast

Spring Flood Outlook - February 24, 2012

Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation's Flood Forecasting Centre has issued the first Flood Outlook indicating the flood potential for Manitoba for spring 2012. The flood outlook at this time is based on soil moisture analysis and the water content in the snow pack within the Red River watershed. A second flood outlook in late March is expected and will provide an updated determination of the 2012 spring flood potential.

Summary of Provincial Flood Outlook for the Winnipeg Area

The potential for high river levels to occur this spring on the Red River in Winnipeg is low. The Province indicates that the soil moisture content and the water content of the existing snow pack in the United States portion of the Red River watershed is well below average. However, the peak Red River level is still very dependent on weather conditions from now through to spring.

With average weather, the Red River is expected to crest in Winnipeg at 9.18 feet James. With unfavourable weather conditions between now and spring, the Red River would be expected to crest at 14.75 feet James.

City's Flood Control Plan

In preparation for this spring, the Water and Waste Department and the Public Works Department will develop a flood control plan for a spring peak of 14.75 feet James.

A flood of this magnitude will require:

• The activation of 12 flood pumping stations
• The activation of 94 sewer control gates
• The set-up of 8 temporary pump location

The City's flood control plan is based on the February Flood Outlook. The actual event will be influenced by highly variable weather related factors and as such the City's plan will be revised as flood forecasts are updated.

Recent Flood History

Peak Red River Levels in Winnipeg at James Avenue (in feet)

Source: Diking Commissioner's Reports (Only peaks over 15 feet James are shown)

As reference, the normal summer river level is 6.5 feet James while the River Walkway level is 8.5 feet James.