Rising Lake Manitoba creates 'desperate situation'

The rural municipality of Siglunes, on Lake Manitoba, says it is facing a crisis as water continues to rise.

"The R.M. of Siglunes is in a desperate situation," officials said in a news release issued Saturday afternoon. "Residents must take action to protect their homes and recreational properties."

Officials said lake waters have risen precipitously and recent bad weather has only made matters worse.

"Persons are urgently needed to man pumps, deliver sandbags, staff the EOC centre and help with emergent needs," officials added. "Many roads in the R.M. are flooded and motorists must heed road closed signs and take caution on all roads."

The news release said residents "must be prepared to evacuate their families to safety" and people could voluntarily move to an emergency shelter.