Although the basin is received some rainfall yesterday and more is expected today, dry conditions are expected to return next week and inflow to the major lakes will continue to decline.
The current level of Lake of the Woods is 322.86 m (1059.3 ft), a 35th percentile level, in the normal range for this time of year. The average lake level decreased by 6 cm (2 in) over the last week and is expected to decrease by 2 to 3 cm (0.5 -1 in), over the next week. Outflow reductions at Lake of the Woods will continue to slow the rate of level decline. Lake of the Woods authorized outflow will decrease to:
- 425 m3/s on Thursday, September 5th
- 375 m3/s on Monday, September 9th
- 350 m3/s on Thursday, September 12th
The scheduled outflow reductions will cause levels along the Winnipeg River to decline as follows:
- Directly downstream of the Norman Dam: approximately 19 cm (7.5 in) September 5th, 12 cm (5 in) September 9th and 5 cm (2 in) September 12th for a total drop of 36 cm (14 in) total drop by September 12th
- Above the Dalles: approximately 10 cm (4 in) September 5th, 6 cm (2 in) September 9th and 3 cm (1 in) September 12th for a total drop of 19 cm (7.5 in) total drop by September 12th
- The water level at Minaki will not be affected by these flow changes.
The current level of Lac Seul is 356.34 m (1169.1 ft), a 30th percentile level, within the normal range for this time of year. The average lake level declined by 4 cm (1.5 in) over the past week and is expected to decrease 1 to 2 cm (less than 0.5 in) over the next week. Lac Seul authorized outflow is 350 m3/s and will decrease to 300 m3/s Saturday September 7th.