The number of asylum seekers or migrants walking across the border in Emerson from the US continues to rise. Ten migrants were just picked up Friday Morning walking along a train track located near the corner of Dennis Ave and 6th Street in the South East Corner of the community, carrying several suitcases.

More than 450 people have illegally entered Manitoba into Emerson since the start of 2017 according to Reeve Greg Janzen.

"The number of people crossing illegally recently really has me concerned, it's going up fast. To put it into context there were a total of nineteen in January and as of March 3rd a total of one hundred and eighty three. So that means in just over a month we have had over two hundred and sixty," explained Janzen.

At least 14 people walked across the Canada-U.S. border into Emerson this past weekend, avoiding official ports of entry so they aren't sent back under the Safe Third Country agreement, which requires them to make a refugee claim in the country where they first arrive.

Surrounding communities like Gretna, Roseau River First Nations, and Dominion city within the last month have also begun to witness a few lost migrants looking for help in their communities.

Recently Emergency Services and area officials like Reeve Janzen have expressed concern about the areas current overland flooding, suggesting that the high water could create risk for those crossing illegally.

Two people were found crossing near Dominion City during the April 1st weekend, officials suspect floodwaters are forcing asylum seekers to take alternative routes. Local officials now have to cover those areas putting an even larger strain on current man power to deal with the situation.

The Fire Department and emergency team attended water rescue training Monday and so far this year have not had to use it, but are prepared if needed. The migrants are no longer crossing in the dark, but in the last week they have been spotted by several community residents in the middle of the day.