In early July 2026, both the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation (SVDN) and the City of Brandon in Manitoba declared states of emergency in response to rising floodwaters threatening their communities.
**Sioux Valley Dakota Nation's Declaration**
On July 4, 2026, SVDN officially declared a state of emergency due to rapidly rising floodwaters impacting the community and surrounding areas. Chief Jennifer Bone emphasized that the declaration was a proactive measure to activate the community's emergency management process and ensure a swift response if conditions worsened. She assured residents that there were no immediate restrictions on movement in and out of the community, and that Provincial Highway 21 remained open and accessible. The community was advised to stay informed through official communication channels and to avoid spreading unverified information or rumors.
**City of Brandon's Declaration**
Similarly, the City of Brandon declared a state of local emergency on July 4, 2026, in anticipation of flood conditions resulting from significant rainfall throughout the Assiniboine and Shellmouth River basins. Provincial flood forecasts indicated that water levels on the Assiniboine River were expected to begin rising in the coming days, with peak flows anticipated near July 12. The declaration provided the city with additional authority and flexibility to respond quickly to evolving conditions, protect critical infrastructure, safeguard property, and ensure public safety. The city's Emergency Operations Centre remained fully activated, coordinating flood response efforts across municipal departments and with provincial agencies, emergency services, and local partners.
**Community Preparedness and Response**
Both SVDN and the City of Brandon have been actively monitoring weather conditions, river levels, and outflow rates. SVDN's Emergency Management Team has been in close communication with provincial and federal partners, including the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization and Indigenous Services Canada, to ensure preparedness. Residents have been advised to stay informed through official communication channels, avoid spreading unverified information, and review their household emergency plans. The safety of the community remains the highest priority, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
In Brandon, flood protection measures, including the temporary dike closure at Grand Valley Road and 18th Street, have been completed as part of ongoing preparedness activities. Residents are reminded to stay away from the dike system and all closed trails, parks, pathways, and riverbank areas, and to monitor City of Brandon updates for changing conditions and safety information.
**Regional Impact**
The flooding has also affected other communities in the region. The Town of Minnedosa declared its own state of local emergency on July 3, 2026, after council unanimously approved the measure during a special meeting. Mayor Ken Cameron stated that the declaration provides legal authority for the municipality to take necessary actions to protect the community, including carrying out flood protection work on private property if required. While evacuation remains a possibility if conditions worsen, officials are not anticipating that at this time.
Overall, the situation underscores the importance of proactive measures and community preparedness in the face of natural disasters. Authorities continue to monitor conditions closely and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.