Farmers and property owners in Steinbach can now apply for provincial disaster relief after heavy rains earlier this month caused widespread flooding. The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization opened applications on June 16 for the 2026 June Heavy Rains Disaster Financial Assistance program, which was announced on June 11, with a deadline of September 9.
Steinbach was among the hardest-hit communities, with Environment Canada reporting 103 millimetres of rain in just four hours on June 9 and 135 millimetres by the time the storm ended. The flooding stranded vehicles, swamped fields and left farm operators assessing significant crop and infrastructure damage.
The program covers uninsurable losses for farms, including livestock fencing, harvested and stored crops, field erosion, drainage cleaning and mandatory evacuation costs. Claims can reach up to $3 million, with a deductible of $2,500 or 20 per cent, whichever is greater. To qualify, farmers must first contact their insurance provider.
Premier Wab Kinew said on June 16 that residents who did not purchase flood insurance may still be eligible, a break from standard rules. “We’re not going to let the rules as posted on the website stand in the way of doing the right thing,” Kinew said. “The climate is changing, and our policy and emergency response has to change with it.”
The agricultural sector in southeastern Manitoba is still tallying losses, with some fields under water for days. Steinbach, known as the ‘Centre of Advanced Agribusiness,’ is home to major hog farming operations including HyLife, one of Canada’s leading pork producers.
The city is sharing program details with residents. For more information, visit the City of Steinbach website.
