Climate Change

Climate change is affecting both the quality and quantity of our water. Warmer temperatures can increase evaporation and precipitation, affecting water levels and increasing the chances of flooding, erosion, and severe weather events. 

Increased Droughts

In Manitoba areas that experience periodic dry spells, the occurrence of droughts may be more frequent due to changing atmospheric conditions. Hotter summers would mean an increase in water consumption for irrigation that would directly affect the water table and result in the loss of wetlands. 

During a drought, shared water sources such as reservoirs, rivers, and groundwater for wells are in jeopardy of running dry. In Manitoba, droughts can significantly impact agriculture, recreation and tourism, water supply, energy production, and transportation. 

Environmental Impacts on Water 

Climate change will impact all Canadians, and freshwater ecosystems are among the resources at particular risk. Canada’s freshwater is particularly at risk as major river flows are affected, and extreme weather events can contribute to more water moving over the land or do the opposite. It's expected climate change will reduce flow in major rivers by as much as 20% this century.

How does Climate Change Affect Manitoba’s Freshwater?