Manitoba Premier has called on all residents to stay off highways as extensive flooding grips the Parkland region, prompting the Town of Dauphin to declare a state of emergency. The severe weather event, which includes a confirmed tornado in the Whyte Ridge area and an upgraded tornado rating for Rossburn, has led to widespread road closures and property damage.
State of Emergency in Dauphin
The Town of Dauphin officially declared a state of emergency on July 1, 2026, as floodwaters from heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers threatened homes and infrastructure. Emergency crews are conducting door-to-door sandbagging operations in flooded communities to mitigate further damage. The province has deployed additional resources to support local response efforts.
According to the Premier, the situation remains critical, with highways in the region becoming impassable. “Stay off all highways unless absolutely necessary,” the Premier stated in a press conference. “We are working closely with municipal leaders and emergency services to ensure public safety.”
Tornado Confirmation and Upgrades
Environment Canada confirmed that the storm that swept through Whyte Ridge was a tornado, while the tornado in Rossburn has been upgraded to a higher rating on the Enhanced Fujita scale. The storms caused significant structural damage, downed power lines, and left thousands without electricity. The Manitoba government is assessing the full extent of the damage.
The severe weather also triggered heat warnings across southern Manitoba, with humidex values reaching into the 40s, compounding the challenges for residents and emergency workers. Power outages remain widespread in affected areas.
Impact on Communities
The flooding has affected numerous communities in the Parkland region, with some residents reporting water levels rising rapidly. The Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization is coordinating sandbagging efforts and providing shelters for displaced individuals. The premier urged residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid travel on flooded roads.
“We are seeing a record number of insurance claims related to this event,” said a spokesperson for Manitoba Public Insurance. “Some homeowners are not receiving flood coverage, which is adding to the financial strain.”
Ongoing Weather Warnings
Environment Canada has maintained heat warnings for much of the province, with humidex values expected to remain elevated in the coming days. The combination of extreme heat and flooding poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and seek cooling centres if needed.
The premier emphasized that the situation is dynamic and that updates will be provided as more information becomes available. “Our priority is the safety of Manitobans,” he said. “We will continue to monitor conditions and provide support where needed.”
