Flood watch issued for Mississippi River watershed as rain and warm weather raise water levels

They say April showers brings May flowers, but it could bring some flooding first.

After multiple days of rain and warming temperatures, a flood watch has been issued by the Mississippi River Conservation Authority (MVCA) for the Mississippi River watershed, with officials warning that rising water levels and continued rainfall could lead to localized flooding in the coming days.

Water levels and flows are already elevated throughout the area and will only continue to rise along the Mississippi River and its tributaries due to weather conditions.

The advisory was issued on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 as an update to an earlier flood outlook. The MVCA warns that flooding is possible in specific watercourses and low-lying areas, particularly as mild temperatures and steady rain persist across the region this week.

According to the notice, daytime highs are expected to remain well above seasonal norms, with temperatures climbing above 15 degrees in the coming days. Combined with a forecasted rainfall of 30 – 60 millimetres over the next two weeks, the conditions are accelerating snow and water runoff into rivers and streams.

MVCA officials explain that these conditions could result in fast-moving water, unstable riverbanks and the increased risk of ice jams in some areas. Low-lying roads, driveways and properties may also experience pooling water or flooding.

Residents are being urged to exercise caution around waterways and to closely monitor local conditions, particularly those living in flood-prone areas.

The flood watch remains in effect until April 21, or until further updates are issued. Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website.