Dry weather has persisted over the past week and continues through the forecast period with the exception of potential rainfall on October 6th. These dry conditions along with upstream flow reductions from Rainy Lake are leading to continually decreasing inflows to Lake of the Woods. To balance outflows with inflows additional outflow reductions will be required.
The current level of Lake of the Woods is 322.74 m (1058.85 ft), a 30th percentile level, in the normal range for this time of year. The average lake level decreased 5 cm (2 in) over the last week and is expected to remain stable or decrease by 2 cm (1 in). To continue to balance outflows and inflows, 3 outflow reductions are planned:
- 225 m3/s Friday October 4th
- 200 m3/s Monday October 7th
- 175 m3/s Wednesday October 9th
These outflow changes will cause levels along the Winnipeg River to decrease as follows:
- 5 cm (2 in) below the Norman Dam October 4th and 7th, and 4 cm (1.5 in) October 9th
- 2 cm (1 in) below the Dalles October 4th and 7th, and 1 cm (<0.5 in) October 9th
- The water level at Minaki will not be impacted by this outflow reduction.
The current level of Lac Seul is 356.31 m (1168.99 ft), a 45th percentile level, within the normal range for this time of year. The average lake level decreased by 6 cm (2.5 in) over the past week and is expected to decrease 5 to 6 cm (2 to 2.5 in). Lac Seul authorized outflow is 350 m3/s with no changes scheduled.