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Red could crest in city today

By: Staff Writer

7/04/2009 5:21 PM | Comments: 4

These satellite images released by Manitoba Water Stewardship show the flood extent on the Red River from April 4-6, 2009 around St.Jean Baptiste, Man. (HANDOUT)

The Red River could start its first and biggest crest in Winnipeg today, but the ice that’s been stubbornly sitting on the Red River may also start moving.

The ice that threatens to jam at bridges in Winnipeg and flood riverfront homes could push the Red up to 20.5 feet James Avenue.

But flood forecaster Alf Warkentin said the painfully slow melt might finally force the ice pans to move. That gives the province more leeway to activate the floodway if ice jams threaten homes. Once the floodway gates are raised, it takes about six hours for the river to slowly drop through Winnipeg.

Another lower crest, at 18 feet James Avenue, is expected in Winnipeg April 16.

Provincial flood fighters said Tuesday afternoon they are well prepared for the natural rise of the Red over the next week as water from North Dakota flows north.

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About 90 per cent of the diking is done north of the city, and the province began to close dikes protecting towns like Morris and St. Adolphe today.

The province also brought in an Alberta-based rescue helicopter to be on standby in case injured homeowners need to be retrieved from flood zones. The Stars Air Ambulance arrived on the weekend and is stationed at the Richardson International Airport.

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