High levels of precipitation and dramatic shifts in temperature have caused lake levels to rise and in response, the Lake of the Woods Control Board (LWCB) has authorized lake outflow to be increased.
The current level of Lake of the Woods is 322.56 m (1058.3 ft), a 50th percentile level for this time of year.
The average lake level increased by 9cm (4in) over the past week and it is expected to continue to rise by another 15-20 cm (6-8 in) over the next week.
To combat rising lake levels, the LWCB has authorized an increase in the outflow. Lake of the Woods outflow is scheduled to increase from 500 m³/s to 575 m³/s today, April 20.
The Winnipeg River level immediately below Norman Dam will rise by approximately 18 cm (7 in) as a result of this flow increase. The river level rise will be less with distance downstream of Kenora with no effect expected at Minaki.
An additional outflow increase is likely to happen on Friday, April 22, with possible further increases through the following week, however, details for the outflow changes will be provided at a later time.
The current Level of Lac Seul is 354.79 m (1164.0 ft), a 40th percentile level for this time of year. The average lake level rose by 6 cm (2 in) over the past week and is expected to increase by 12-22 cm (5-9 in) over the next week.
Lac Seul authorized outflow is 100 m³/s with no changes currently scheduled.