Rainfall warning remains for most of Southern Manitoba, heavy rain expected Thursday night

There is a rainfall warning in effect for much of southern Manitoba.

Natalie Hasell with Environment Canada says there is a low-pressure system sitting over North Dakota that is going to bring a lot of rain, beginning later in the day on Thursday. 

Hasell says we can expect rain, at times heavy, to begin late Thursday evening. Between 10 and 15 millimetres of rain is anticipated Thursday night. Friday's forecast also calls for rain, at times heavy, with another 10 to 20 millimetres expected. Periods of rain are also expected Friday night. 

"There's a small chance for some places to also have the rain continue on Saturday morning," notes Hasell. She says if the track or the speed of the system changes, there could be rain on Saturday morning. 

According to Hasell, Environment Canada is calling for 50 to 60 millimetres of rain to fall before the system leaves the region. 

"Although we are talking about it being spread over at least a day and a half to two days," she points out. 

For the latest forecast details, and updated Watch and Warning information, click here.

And though the amount of rain warrants a warning, Hasell says at least it is not all falling in one shot. However, she says the concern is for the heavy rain at times, which could produce localized flooding in low-lying areas. 

"Driving in these conditions, visibility could be reduced," she warns. "So, you should drive to the conditions and pay attention to what's happening around you."

Hasell says we can also expect strong winds with this system. Though wind speeds might not be strong enough to warrant a warning, Hasell says winds from the north could gust to 60 kilometres per hour on both Friday and Saturday. 

She notes one thing that is doubtful with this system, is thunderstorms. 

"And no lightning," adds Hasell. "As far as I can tell there shouldn't be any thunderstorm at all with this system."

Meanwhile, Hasell says we should get a bit of a break from the rain on Saturday before the next system rolls in. She notes there is a chance of showers again on Sunday, though nothing significant. Hasell says after that, to start the week we should get a couple of days of sunshine under a ridge of high pressure.