The Manitoba government has issued a high wind effect warning for areas along Lake Manitoba, including Delta Beach, with strong north winds and wave action forecasted to cause dangerous conditions and rising water levels.
The warning is part of a broader weather system bringing heavy precipitation and high winds across much of the province.
South basin and shorelines under wind threat
Wind gusts of up to 80 kilometres per hour are expected to begin Thursday afternoon and last through Friday evening.
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre warns that the southern basin of Lake Manitoba is particularly at risk, with potential wave action causing water levels to rise significantly along the shoreline.
"North wind gusting up to 80 kilometres per hour and the resulting wave action could raise water levels by as much as five feet or more," says the Hydrologic Forecast Centre.
Residents and property owners near the south basin are being urged to take proactive steps to reduce potential damage.
Click here for a map of affected areas.
Safety urged near flood-prone areas and control sites
With elevated lake levels and high winds expected, officials are also asking the public to steer clear of hazardous areas, including any flood response activity and water infrastructure near the lake.
"Members of the public are also asked to keep away from flooded areas, water control structures including dams and diversions, and areas where flood response crews are working," notes the Hydrologic Forecast Centre.
Manitobans are also reminded to stay away from creeks, streams, rivers and the Red River Floodway during this time.
Click here for road closures.
High winds expected in other parts of Manitoba
In addition to Lake Manitoba, high wind effects are also expected along parts of Lake Winnipeg.
Shoreline areas near Gimli on the west side and Victoria Beach on the east side may also experience significant wave action and rising water levels.
A separate overland flood watch remains in effect for parts of southwestern Manitoba, including areas south of the Trans-Canada Highway along the Virden to Brandon corridor and west of Provincial Trunk Highway 10, covering communities such as Souris, Melita and Boissevain.
These areas may receive over 80 millimetres of rain between May 14 and 16.
"The exact location and amount of the precipitation event remains uncertain but heavy rainfall over a short period may create high surface runoff which could lead to overland flooding, regardless of current soil moisture condition," continues the Hydrologic Forecast Centre.