Preparations underway as rivers rising in parts of southern Manitoba

SELKIRK, Man. – Areas of southern Manitoba are making preparations for rising rivers.

The crest of the Red River was near Ste. Agathe on Monday and should reach Winnipeg either Tuesday or Wednesday.

The City of Selkirk was taking measures to protect low-lying areas along the riverbank in Selkirk Park.

For a few anxious moments on Monday, the manager of the Marine Museum in Selkirk thought ice jams could create a flood.

Shay Nordal said in the morning, emergency measures officials were warning them a sudden rise in water could come within a couple of hours.

But Nordal said just as she went to check the situation, she realized the water had dropped, leading her to believe the ice jam must have broken a bit.

Just to be on the safe side, the museum has moved all its valuables to higher ground.

A high water advisory is in effect for streams in the Interlake, as well as the Whitemud River from Woodside to Lake Manitoba.

Other high water advisories include streams in eastern Manitoba, like the Whitemouth and Brokenhead Rivers which have seen rises. Also included is the Assiniboine River from Holland to Portage la Prairie. The Portage Diversion remains in operation.

The Red River Floodway is not being used yet, but the situation is being monitored closely.