The Reeve for the Municipality of Pembina says overland flooding is a concern this spring. Glen Shishkoski says public works crews continue to monitor troublesome areas, and like many other areas are watching the spring melt closely.

Because the region is characterized by hills and rolling terrain flooding hasn't always been a large concern, he says, but notes low lying farmland adjacent to the Pembina River remains their biggest concern.

Historically, flooding issues have plagued residents around La Riviere and Holiday Mountain. "They have year-round diking in place, and usually have to do sandbagging to shore up some spots."

Shishkoski notes ditches are packed full of snow at the moment, but a slow melt and light freezing overnight would make a big difference, allowing local water a chance be absorbed.

However, plus 10 degrees and rain would mean "all bets are off."

Water coming from North Dakota could impact two creeks feeding the Pembina River. Combined with a quick thaw ice jams can quickly plug culverts and cause wash out roads, something the municipality saw two years ago.