Understanding the type of flood you may face and your property's risk level is the foundation of effective preparation. Manitoba areas near rivers, particularly the Red River Valley, face elevated flooding threats. Assess your risk by consulting floodplain maps, municipal zoning information, and provincial government resources.

Flash floods are sudden and intense, caused by heavy rainfall over brief periods and occurring within minutes or hours - particularly hazardous due to their speed and unpredictability.

River floods occur when water levels exceed riverbanks due to prolonged rainfall or rapid snowmelt. These develop over days or weeks, allowing more preparation time.

Urban flooding happens when city drainage systems become overwhelmed, resulting in street pooling, basement water intrusion, and hazardous conditions.

Stay informed through multiple channels: Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) updates, Environment Canada forecasts via the WeatherCAN app, local emergency management text and email notifications, and official government social media accounts.

Preparation before a flood event is the single most effective way to reduce risk and speed up recovery.

Assemble a kit including water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable foods, flashlights with extra batteries, first aid supplies, prescription medications, blankets, phone chargers, and a list of emergency contacts.

Develop safe routes to higher ground and establish family meeting points in case members are separated. Arrange accommodation for pets in advance, as emergency shelters often cannot accept animals. Practice the plan regularly with all household members.

Store passports, insurance policies, and property deeds in waterproof containers. Digitally scan important documents and back them up to secure cloud storage. Keep copies of emergency contacts and identification in your emergency kit.

Clear gutters and drains to ensure proper water drainage. Relocate electronics, furniture, and irreplaceable items to upper levels before flood season. Install sump pumps or water barriers where appropriate. Turn off utilities if flooding appears imminent and it is safe to do so.

When flooding is actively occurring, personal safety is the priority above all else.

Follow local authority instructions immediately when warnings are issued. Leave promptly if evacuation orders are given, especially for flash flooding scenarios. Bring emergency kits, important documents, and essential supplies when you go.

Just 15 centimetres of moving water can knock a person off their feet. Never drive into flooded roadways. Standing water hides debris, open manholes, and dangerous terrain. Floodwater frequently carries sewage and chemical contamination, creating serious health risks from any contact.

If safe and time permits, shut off electricity, gas, and water supplies to prevent electrical hazards, gas leaks, and additional water damage from pressurized supply lines. Evacuate immediately if standing water has reached utility areas.

The period immediately following a flood carries its own set of hazards that require careful navigation.

Do not return home until local authorities confirm it is safe. Be alert to contaminated water, downed power lines, and structural instability even after evacuation orders are lifted.

Examine the exterior for structural damage including foundation cracks and warping before entering. Have a licensed electrician inspect all water-exposed electrical systems before use. Evacuate immediately and contact utility providers if you suspect a gas leak.

Floodwaters create conditions for mould growth within 24 to 48 hours. Ventilate all spaces and use fans or dehumidifiers to dry thoroughly. Conduct a professional moisture survey to identify hidden moisture in walls and flooring before closing up any structure.

Contact restoration experts for severe standing water, suspected mould, structural concerns, or electrical and plumbing damage. Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization: gov.mb.ca/emo. Canadian Red Cross: redcross.ca. Disaster Financial Assistance: gov.mb.ca/finance/disaster. Relief Restorations provides 24/7 emergency response across Winnipeg and Manitoba.