The Peguis First Nation has issued a Level 1 evacuation notice as the community prepares for significant spring flooding along the Fisher River in Manitoba. Chief Dr. Stan Bird declared a state of emergency on April 18, 2026, stating that the flood risk is now a certainty as water levels are expected to reach peak flows between April 23 and April 28.
Evacuations began on April 20, with a focus on priority residents such as those with medical disabilities, diabetes, or pregnancy. By April 22, nine residents had been moved to Selkirk for safety, though 27 other individuals with complex medical needs chose to remain in the community. The First Nation has established its multiplex as an emergency coordination hub and evacuation centre, with space to house approximately 300 people. Additional shelter for families has been set up inside the community arena complex using tents and teepees.
To prepare for the rising water, more than 800,000 sandbags and 23,000 super sandbags have been delivered to the area. According to provincial officials, these supplies have been used to protect 115 of the 225 homes identified as being at the highest risk. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew visited the community on April 16 to participate in these sandbagging efforts and has expressed a commitment to pursuing permanent flood protection solutions for the region.
This event marks the fifth major flood in the community since 2000. Many residents are still recovering from past events, including the 2022 flood which displaced approximately 2,000 people and damaged 500 homes. Roughly 100 homes remain condemned in the community due to flood damage dating back to 2011, and some residents from previous years have yet to return home. Despite past government commitments, permanent flood protection infrastructure has not yet been constructed, leading the First Nation to file a $1-billion lawsuit against federal and provincial governments in April 2024 regarding repeated flood damage.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official communications for the latest updates on flood conditions and available support services.
