Brandon, Manitoba, declared a local state of emergency Friday as the Assiniboine River is forecast to rise dramatically [2].

The emergency measures come as heavy rains push river levels toward near-record heights, threatening residential areas and critical infrastructure. Local officials are racing to fortify the city's defenses before the water reaches its projected peak.

Mayor Jeff Fawcett said the city is taking all possible precautions to mitigate the impact of the flooding. The municipal government has begun deploying super-sandbags to create barriers against the rising tide [1].

"We’re doing everything we can," Fawcett said.

Water levels on the Assiniboine River are expected to rise by about 2.5 metres [1]. To protect homes, the city has specifically placed super-sandbags along First Street [3].

Fawcett said the administration is focused on controlling everything they can control as the weather system moves through the region [2]. The city expects the river to continue rising throughout the week, with the peak projected for Monday, July 15 [1].

Emergency crews and city workers remain on high alert to monitor the effectiveness of the barriers. Officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and follow local directives as the water levels approach their highest point [1].

“"We’re doing everything we can."”

The declaration of a state of emergency allows the city of Brandon to mobilize resources and personnel more rapidly than standard operating procedures permit. By deploying super-sandbags, which are larger and more efficient than traditional sandbags, the city is attempting to prevent catastrophic property damage in high-risk areas like First Street before the July 15 peak.