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Lake of the Woods expected to rise by as much as 10 inches
LWCB News Release
The current level of Lake of the Woods is 323.67 m (1061.9 ft), the same as the peak level reached last year. This level is 58 cm (23 inches) above median for this time of year.
The lake is expected to rise 10 cm (4 inches) over the next week. Over the next 3 weeks, the level is expected to rise 15 cm (6 inches). The Norman Dam at Kenora is discharging at its maximum capability, and the outflow will continue to increase as the lake level rises.
The level of the Winnipeg River below the Norman Dam is 319.47 m (1048.1 ft). This is 2.80 m (9.2 ft) above normal. It is expected to rise an additional 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches), approximately 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) higher than the peak level reached in 2001. At Minaki the current level is 317.39 m (1041.3 ft). This is 1.32 m (4.3 ft) above normal. Minaki is expected to rise 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inches), or about 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) higher than the peak level in 2001.
The level of Rainy Lake, upstream of Lake of the Woods, is presently 70 cm (28 inches) above its operating range specified by the International Joint Commission.
Maximum discharge at International Falls/Fort Frances will continue for the weeks to come.
The level of Lac Seul is 356.81 m (1170.6 ft). This is 65 cm (26 inches) above median for this time of year. Lac Seul elevation is expected to change little over the next week. Ear Falls outflow is 500 m3/s.
Water levels in the Whiteshell region in Manitoba will continue to rise due to the high flows in both the English and Winnipeg Rivers. The current level of Nutimik Lake is 276.54 m (907.3 ft). The level is expected to continue to rise slowly over the next 2-4 weeks and could eventually rise to 276.74 m (907.9 ft), the level reached in 1992.
The amount of rainfall received over the next few weeks will have a significant impact on peak levels reached and on the length of time that flows and water levels remain high. Anyone concerned with water levels, especially on the Winnipeg River, should ensure that they stay informed. Property owners should take any precautions necessary to minimize problems caused by the high water levels. All users should exercise caution due to higher water levels and river currents. Please reduce boat speeds near shore to reduce wake damage.