Flooding expected along Assiniboine River in western Manitoba

Even though Manitoba is dry, the province says there will be some flooding in southern Manitoba.

That's due toincreased outflows coming from the ShellmouthDam, resulting in higher levels on the upper Assiniboine River.

By 9 a.m. Thursday, the river is expected to rise and flood low-lying land. The area between the dam and St. Lazare is expected to get between a half-metre to just over a metreof water.

The outflows are being increased to slow the rate the reservoir is risingand to preserve storage space on the reservoir for the growing season.

Higher outflows now may allow the dam and reservoir to be used to prevent potential flooding later in the year during the growing season.

The highest water coming from the dam is expected to be between April 15 and 17. The Shellmouth Reservoir Regulation Liaison Committee has been meeting on a daily basis to discuss the situation.

Water levels are expected to drop back below the bank by the end of April.