As heavy rainfall continues to impact our region, the City of Winkler is warning drivers to be extra cautious when encountering flooded roads.
“We started putting out road closure signs in intersections that are prone to flooding to protect motorists,” said Wendy Klassen, Assistant City Manager for the City of Winkler. “A lot of times, people aren't aware of how deep the water is and drive through assuming it's shallow. Once they have gone too far, it can be too late, and they have damage to their vehicles.”
Klassen stressed the importance of obeying road closure signs during heavy rains, noting they are in place for public safety.
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Ignoring those signs now carries a financial cost as well. The Manitoba government has introduced preset fines for violating road closures due to flooding. Drivers of light vehicles who ignore the closures will face a $298 fine, while drivers of heavy vehicles can be fined $672. Individuals who instruct drivers to use a closed road can also be penalized—$672 for light vehicles and up to $1,296 for heavy trucks.
Manitoba Public Insurance is also reminding motorists of the risks of driving through floodwaters. Drivers are advised to check road conditions before heading out and to avoid any flooded areas entirely.
"Never attempt to cross a flooded road," MPI said in a statement. "Water can conceal large potholes, soft shoulders, or other hazards that could cause serious damage or loss of control."
MPI also recommends testing brakes after passing through water and avoiding starting a vehicle that has been submerged.
For more tips from MPI, click here.