River levels in Brandon have peaked, stabilized, according to mayor

The Assiniboine River flowing through Brandon, Man., has peaked and stabilized, according to the city’s mayor.

The Assiniboine River flowing through Brandon, Man., has peaked and stabilized, according to the city’s mayor. Jeff Fawcett provided an update Monday saying the river peaked overnight at 1,179.49 feet. The river currently sits at 1,179.46 feet.

The river level climbed significantly over a short period of time, Fawcett said, noting it has risen 7.5 feet since July 7. It’s expected the river will stay at this height over the next few days, as long as no additional rain falls. “The city’s flood response remains active,” Fawcett said.

“Crews will continue to monitor the conditions. I want to thank all our staff, the contractors, local and provincial partners for their support. I want to thank all the residents for their patience as we raced to get all these measures in place.”

Fawcett also thanked Mother Nature for cooperating over the past week. The city has been preparing for the rising water, deploying sandbags and tiger dams to protect homes and infrastructure over the last several days. Evacuation notices were also issued for areas around the river to give residents all the information they need.

No evacuation orders are currently in place. Given all the prep work the city did, Fawcett said it has put Brandon in a good position. “We are confident, but we’re not walking away to just let it go.

We’re monitoring it continually,” he said. As the city now waits for the river to start receding, Fawcett said it’s important for residents to remember that some of the most dangerous times around the river are after peak levels are reached. He noted the river is flowing fast and erosion along the banks is possible.

“As floodwaters withdraw, riverbanks can become unstable due to erosion. Saturated ground can give way unexpectedly and damage to flood protection measures may not always be immediately visible. Areas that appear safe may still present significant risk,” he said.

Fawcett said city crews will monitor all areas that have been impacted by high water levels. The city still remains in a state of emergency.