Flood safety: spring 2026

As of mid-April, the province has warned of increased flood risk in certain areas of the province. This elevated risk is due to significantly above normal snowpack, a delayed spring melt and an increased likelihood of rapid runoff combined with spring precipitation.

During a flood, both electrical and natural gas safety are extremely important. Call Manitoba Hydro immediately at 1-888-624-9376 (1-888-MBHYDRO) if a flood-related electrical or natural gas emergency occurs in your home.

For your safety and to minimize flood damage to electrical and natural gas equipment in your home, consider the following:

Before a flood:

• Turn off the electrical main power switch only if the building is dry.
• Move portable electrical items to an upper floor or somewhere not at risk of water damage. Raise large electrical appliances like a refrigerator off the floor, if possible.
• Prevent sewer backup by making sure the sewer backwater valve and sump pump are working.
• Contact Manitoba Hydro as it may be necessary to shut off the gas supply to your home.

If your basement floods:

• Do not enter flooded basements or buildings as they may have energized wires or appliances. Electricity can move through water or wet flooring and cause a severe electrical shock or death. Even a small amount of water on the floor can be dangerous.
• Call Manitoba Hydro to disconnect the power at the pole and shut off your natural gas service.
• Always assume electrical equipment and wiring in flooded areas is energized until Manitoba Hydro confirms the area is safe.

After a flood:

Remember that natural gas and electrical hazards may still be present long after flood waters recede. Electrical and natural gas appliances damaged by flooding may look safe on the outside, but they can be extremely dangerous if they’re re-energized and used without being properly inspected by a licensed contractor. In some cases, exposed wiring, outlets, panels, appliances, and gas equipment may need to be repaired or replaced even if no visible damage is present. You may first need to contact a:

• Licensed electrician to service your home’s electrical system and arrange for an inspection.
• Licensed gas fitter to service your natural gas appliances and equipment.
• Your contractor will advise Manitoba Hydro when it’s safe for your electricity or natural gas to be reconnected.

If your power was disconnected as a safety precaution, but you weren’t flooded, contact Manitoba Hydro to arrange for an inspection to be sure it’s safe to restore service without a contractor.

Boat travel during a flood:

• Stay at least 10 metres away from power lines. Normally safe distances may no longer be safe.
• Avoid travelling at night: electrical wires will be impossible to see. In daylight, be sure your route is clear. If travel in the dark is unavoidable, do not deviate from your route.
• Be aware that currents can be swift and may change as water levels rise and fall.

Using a standby generator safely

Some customers prepare for possible power outages by installing standby generators that help to keep the power on until Manitoba Hydro can restore service.

When operating a generator, always consider your personal safety and the safety of others by following these tips:

• The output cables of a standby generator can be deadly. Use extreme caution and use only in dry areas.
• If the power goes off, wait 10 minutes before starting a generator. Some outages can be short-lived.
• Never operate a generator indoors or within enclosed spaces. Poisonous carbon monoxide gas may result.
• Ensure your generator has a transfer switch, installed by a licensed electrician, that isolates the generator from the main power grid. This prevents back-feed onto power lines, protecting your equipment from damage or fire and protecting Hydro crews from serious injury or death.
• Be sure the transfer switch and all breakers are correctly positioned before you start the generator.
• Never plug a generator into an electrical outlet.
• Only plug essential devices into the generator.
• Review the instruction manual and start your generator periodically to ensure it is in good running condition.

Learn about power line safety in flooded areas.