Heavy Rainfall and Widespread Flooding Across Southern Manitoba Prompted Calls for the Immediate Activation of the Portage Diversion.
The Manitoba Progressive Conservatives are urging Premier Wab Kinew and Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor to activate the Portage Diversion as heavy rainfall continues to threaten communities across southern Manitoba and the Interlake region.
Lakeside MLA and PC Critic for Municipal and Northern Relations Trevor King sent a letter to the provincial government requesting immediate consideration of the diversion operation to help lower water levels and reduce the impact of overland flooding.
The appeal follows severe rainfall that has left fields, roads, and drainage systems overwhelmed while placing homes, farmland, and municipal infrastructure at risk.
“Communities downstream are facing significant flood-related risks, including flooded fields, saturated drainage systems, and road impacts, as well as threats to homes, yards, agricultural land, and municipal infrastructure,” said King.
“The Portage Diversion exists to reduce flood risk, and residents need to know that every available provincial flood-control measure is being used where appropriate,” King added.
Several municipalities, including the Town of Stonewall and the RM of Rosser, declared states of emergency after receiving as much as 255 mm of rain last week.
Flooding damaged homes, businesses, farmland, roads, and bridges, while saturated ground and swollen rivers continue to raise concerns.
King also questioned why the diversion was reportedly not operating and called for clarification on its condition.
“As of yesterday morning, the Portage Diversion was not in operation. This has caused concern among residents and local officials who are already dealing with serious overland flooding conditions,” said King. “There is also concern in the community that the mechanical systems that operate the diversion gates may not be functioning correctly.”
He pointed out that “The Portage Diversion exists to reduce flood risk. Residents need to know that every available provincial flood-control measure is being used where appropriate."