Due to favourable weather conditions over the past few weeks, this year’s spring flooding forecast along the Red River has been downgraded. Last month, the flood looked likely to match the flood of 2009, which had been the most severe since 1997. However, new information from the Manitoba Hydrologic Forecast Centre is indicating a crest two to three feet lower than the lesser flood of 2011.

As of the morning of April 9, the water level in Ste. Agathe was 750.37 feet, up about three feet from the previous day. The crest here is expected to hit 769.3 feet.

This downgrade is likely to have a positive effect on road closures, dike closures, and evacuations throughout the region.

“The Red River Floodway is expected to begin operations on April 11 or 12, as river flows increase and if ice conditions permit,” says a report from the province. “But [it] will be delayed if necessary until the ice is flowing freely at the Floodway control structure. The forecasted peak flow on the Red River Floodway is estimated at approximately 25,000 cfs [cubic feet per second].”

Despite the downgrade, Ste. Agathe’s dike is still in the process of being augmented to protect homes in the event of that water rises up to two feet above 2009 levels. According to Ritchot’s website, that plan is being re-evaluated by the province based on the most recent forecasts. Provincial authorities are also re-evaluating the level of protection needed in St. Adolphe.

For those residents who may require sandbags, empty bags will be delivered the same day that they are requested.

“Accompanying the sandbags will be a package containing ‘How to Build a Dike’ document, a ‘Sandbag to Sand ratio’ sheet, and a list of contractors who will supply sand,” says Ritchot’s website. “Payment for sand delivery is at the homeowner’s expense and must be paid directly to the contractor.”

In the meantime, Ritchot’s Municipal Emergency Operation Centre will continue to be open every day from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Volunteers have been trained to answer questions. The centre can be contacted at 204-883-2147.