An area municipal leader says its still a wait-and-see situation as far as flooding along the Red River is concerned.

Provincial flood forecasters say there's a high risk of major flooding on the Red River this spring, possibly near 2011 levels.

Dike closure on the Morris River bridge - File photo

Morris Mayor Scott Crick says there are a number of mitigating factors that need to be considered before worrying too much about a major flood.

"We saw how dry last year was as well as the year before. We know the water table is down and if the soil has a chance to warm up it is going to have a huge capacity to absorb moisture. So, I think from our perspective, it's good to be cautious but at the same time we still have quite a ways to go before we need to start worrying about a flood."

Based on long-term weather forecasts, below-normal temperatures are expected in March and April, further delaying snowmelt, with the risk of spring rains occurring at the same time.

Crick believes the month of March will be critical in determining the extent of flooding this year.

"If we have a quick melt and the ground doesn't get a chance to absorb the moisture, that won't be good. If we get a lot more snow or a ton of rain, that could be a factor too. However, the flip side of that scenario is that we've had very little rain or ice left over from the fall, so hopefully, the spring melt will have a chance to run off in a safe manner and not cause too much inconvenience to anyone."

Even if a major flood were to hit Valley this year, the mayor says the town's flood defences are in good shape and will keep the community dry in a 2011 size flood.

"In the event that flooding is more major, we're very confident in our ability to deal with that."