Water levels going down but flood response ongoing in Manitoba

Lance Jacobson, mayor of Swan River, shares the latest after the evacuation order was lifted and explains how people can support the community.

WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government says water levels on most creeks and rivers in the province are on the decline as the focus shifts to flood cleanup.

The province says it’s still working to repair highways and other infrastructure and assess the damage from recent flooding in the Parkland region, while water levels are still on the rise around Brandon.

It says about 1,800 people and groups have applied for disaster financial assistance so far this year after two major storms, but says it’s too early to say how much the claims might total.

The town of Swan River, which has flooded twice, says it’s repaired and opened access to the landfill and also started to collect flood-damaged furniture and other materials in neighbourhoods.

The Assiniboine River is still rising around Brandon with a peak expected on Monday, but the city says its reinforced dike network should largely prevent damage.

The province says a flood barrier just west of Portage la Prairie is also active to reduce flood risks to downstream communities, including Winnipeg.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 8, 2026.

Ian Bickis, The Canadian Press