Flood warning issued for parts of western Manitoba

A flood warning has been issued for parts of western Manitoba as forecasters predict heavy rain over the next few days.

Widespread rainfall amounts of 60 to 100 millimetres are possible in areas including the upper Assiniboine River and its tributaries in Manitoba, the Shellmouth Reservoir (Lake of the Prairies) watershed, the Little Saskatchewan, Birdtail, Valley, Vermilion, Shell and Swan river basins, and the Parkland region, the provincial government said.

Rainfall totals could be higher if thunderstorms develop and persist over the same area.

The province said water levels on reservoirs and lakes, including the Shellmouth Reservoir, Rivers Dam (Lake Wahtopanah), Minnedosa Dam and Dauphin Lake, could rise by one to three feet over the next few days.

Water levels along rivers, creeks and drainage areas within the Assiniboine River basin and Parkland region could rise significantly over a short period, the province warned.

People who live in or visit the areas were told to be cautious because water levels may rise quickly and conditions could change with little notice. Avoid crossing flooded roads or fast-moving water, the province said.