Winnipeg, MB - Based on ice conditions along the Red River, river levels may peak this weekend. Following analysis of the March 24, 2017, Provincial Flood Outlook, observed river flows and current ice conditions, City of Winnipeg engineers have updated the list of Winnipeg properties at risk which may potentially require sandbag dikes.
Predicted river levels for this weekend could range from:
- a peak at James Avenue of 5.7 metres (18.6 feet) if open water conditions prevail (conditional upon operation of the Red River Floodway)
- a peak at James Avenue of 6.3 metres (20.8 feet) if there is still ice coverage
As a cautionary measure, the City is preparing for the higher of the two levels. The required sandbag dikes could range from a handful of properties to approximately 50. The properties at risk will be prioritized and notices will be hand-delivered to at-risk property owners as required, starting today.
Additional precipitation or a change in ice conditions could alter the number of properties at risk. City of Winnipeg staff will continue to monitor river levels and weather conditions, while working closely with the Province of Manitoba, to adapt protection measures accordingly and release additional flood bulletins when necessary.
If you are not contacted by the City of Winnipeg regarding the need to build a sandbag dike, your property has not been identified as being at risk of river flooding. The City is currently producing sandbags and will have enough to accommodate the identified properties.
Current river levels are available at City of Winnipeg - River Levels
The public is encouraged to follow the City of Winnipeg on Facebook and Twitter (#WpgFlood) for flood updates as well as reviewing flood information on winnipeg.ca/EmergWeb/.
Springtime thaws also increase the risk of basement flooding across the city. When river levels are high, the normal capacity of the sewer system is reduced. With heavy rains, there is an increased risk of overloaded sewers backing up through house sewer lines and flowing into basements that aren’t protected.
Although basement flooding is a risk at any time of the year, the risk increases with high river levels because the sewer system must then rely heavily on pumping stations rather than gravity to carry the rainfall runoff.
Homeowners are reminded to take steps to protect their homes and property.
- Residents who live along the river should move or secure any structures or equipment near the water’s edge, such as docks, sheds, gazebos, irrigation pumps, and recreational equipment. The rising river level will affect each property owner differently.
- To ensure maximum protection against basement flooding, arrange for a licensed plumber to install a sewer line backup valve and a sump pit with pump in the basement.
- Inspect backup valves and sump pump drainage systems to make sure they are functioning properly.
- Ensure drainage is directed away from the home by extending downspouts away from the basement walls and ensuring the earth is built up around the house.
Property owners are reminded it is against the law to drain sump pump water into the basement floor drain or any other part of the house plumbing system, as it can overtax the sewer system placing their basement and those of their neighbours at risk of flooding and damage.
More information is available on the following web pages:
Protect Your Home from Basement Flooding
Winnipeg River Levels
James Avenue Datum
City of Winnipeg Emergency Preparedness Program