Peguis First Nation, the largest First Nations community in Manitoba, has declared a state of emergency as it braces for a high risk of flooding. Chief Stan Bird announced on Saturday that based on the latest forecasts, a significant flood is now a certainty, requiring the evacuation of residents. The community is preparing for a potential disaster similar to the 2022 flood, which forced over 1,000 people from their homes.
The province of Manitoba has been monitoring the flood risk, with recent updates indicating an increased threat in the Interlake region, particularly the Fisher River basin where Peguis is located. Above-normal snowpack, a delayed spring melt, and the potential for rapid runoff contribute to the elevated risk. The province has arranged for the delivery of tens of thousands of sandbags to Peguis First Nation and surrounding communities.
Peguis First Nation has a history of repeated flooding due to its location on a flood-prone river delta, after being moved from their original location in 1907 following an illegal land transfer. This has led to calls for permanent flood protection infrastructure for the community, which has faced major flood events in 2006, 2009, 2011, 2014 and 2022. The lack of a ring dike, unlike many other communities in the Red River Valley, has been a point of concern.
The Manitoba Hydrologic Forecast Centre expects peak flows on the Fisher River near Peguis First Nation between April 23 and 28. The province is also preparing to operate the Red River Floodway to protect the city of Winnipeg from a crest expected next week. Federal assistance has been approved to provide support to Peguis First Nation.
