Historic rainfall left widespread damage across the region.
Floodwaters inundated roads, fields, yards and low-lying areas across the RM of Rockwood and surrounding communities after more than 255 millimetres of rain fell between June 9 and 10. The historic storm caused widespread flooding, property damage and lengthy cleanup efforts throughout the region
Residents across Stonewall, Stony Mountain, Balmoral, Argyle, Grosse Isle and surrounding communities are facing a lengthy cleanup effort after a historic storm dumped more than 255 millimetres of rain on parts of the region between June 9 and 10.
According to the Manitoba Agricultural Weather Program, Stonewall recorded 233.8 mm of rain on June 9, followed by 21.4 mm by 6 a.m. June 10 and another three mm later that evening, for a total of 258.2 mm — more than 10 inches of rain in less than 24 hours.
The intense downpour overwhelmed drainage systems and waterways, turning streets, roads, yards and agricultural land into lakes. Across the region, residents reported water levels rising rapidly as basements flooded and properties became inaccessible.
Power outages during the storm compounded the damage for many homeowners. With electricity knocked out in some areas, sump pumps stopped working as floodwaters continued to rise.
Golf ball-sized hail accompanied the storm in some communities, causing additional damage to vehicles, gardens, crops and property.
The rainfall far exceeded forecasts issued earlier in the week. Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure had warned that parts of the Interlake could receive between 30 and 50 millimetres of rain, while localized thunderstorms could push totals beyond 70 mm. Stonewall ultimately received more than three times the highest projected amount.
The storm left a visible mark across the region. By midweek, residents could be seen hauling damaged furniture and belongings from flooded basements, operating pumps around the clock and beginning the difficult process of cleaning and disinfecting homes.
The impacts extended beyond residential areas. Agricultural land throughout the RM of Rockwood and neighbouring municipalities was left saturated, with standing water covering many low-lying fields. Farmers are now assessing damage to crops, pastures and hay land as water slowly recedes.
While Stonewall recorded the highest rainfall totals, heavy rain fell throughout much of the Interlake. Teulon received 108.1 mm of rain, Woodlands recorded 121.1 mm and Inwood received 61.1 mm, according to the Manitoba Agricultural Weather Program.
As water levels continue to fall, residents, businesses and farmers throughout the region are shifting their focus from emergency response to recovery. Cleanup efforts remain underway as communities assess the full extent of the damage left behind by one of the most significant rainfall events in recent local history.
