Dry conditions
Across many regions of Canada, drought conditions continue with well below normal precipitation and warmer than normal temperatures. These conditions are illustrated in the Government of Canada’s Canadian Drought Monitor.
The watersheds that contribute to our hydroelectric generating system are experiencing abnormally dry to extreme drought conditions. Despite recent rains, overall inflows continue to be well below average.
Under these conditions, Manitoba Hydro must operate to save enough water in storage to meet provincial electricity requirements during the high load winter period. This is contributing to low flows and water levels on many of the lakes and rivers that our operations affect in the north.
Forecasts and operating plans
Changes in precipitation affect Manitoba Hydro’s operations and water levels across the system.
Long-term precipitation forecasts are unreliable and there remains considerable uncertainty in water level projections for the summer period. Manitoba Hydro closely monitors water supply conditions across river basins and updates its forecasts and operating plans weekly.
Manitoba Hydro advises resource users and boaters to use caution on the waterways during these times of low water levels.
The Outlook is based on a combination of current and forecasted weather data from Environment and Climate Change Canada; recent and historic streamflow conditions based on both federal and Manitoba Hydro data; Manitoba Hydro regulation models for Reindeer Lake and SIL; snow surveys conducted by Manitoba Hydro; and snowpack estimates from satellite data.
Note that spring flows depend on how long it takes for snow to melt (for example, warm temperatures will cause a fast melt and higher water flows, while cooler temperatures will cause a slow melt and moderate flows for a longer period of time). Conditions can also change rapidly if a large rainfall or snowfall event occurs. Outlook information will be updated as conditions change.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:
Andrea Lamboo Miln
Waterway Community Engagement
204-360-3505
WCE@hydro.mb.ca
