Tributary flows and lake inflows are still high from the precipitation last week. However with dry conditions forecast for the weekend and into next week, flows are expected to peak in the coming days.
The current level of Lake of the Woods is 322.82 m (1059.1 ft), a 70th percentile level, in the normal range for this time of year. The average lake level increased by 13.6 cm (5.4 in) over the last week and is expected to increase by 8 to 11 cm (3 to 4.3 in) over the next week. Lake of the Woods authorized outflow will increase to 600 m3/s today, May 8th. There is a tentative outflow increase to 650 m3/s scheduled for Tuesday, May 13th, to be confirmed on Monday.
As a result of these outflow increases, levels along the Winnipeg River are expected to increase by 28 cm (11 in) below the Norman Dam, 22 cm (8.6 in) above Kimberley Rapids and 16 cm (6.3 in) at the Dalles. Levels at Minaki will not be affected by these flow changes.
The current level of Lac Seul is 355.07 m (1164.9 ft), a 55th percentile level, in the normal range for this time of year. The lake level increased by 17.6 cm (7 in) over the last week and is expected to increase by 13 to 14.5 cm (5 to 6 in) over the next week. Lac Seul authorized outflow is 200 m3/s, with no changes scheduled.