🌊 Assiniboine River Peaks, Speed Now the Concern
Brandon’s Assiniboine River has stabilized at its crest, but officials say water speed is the main issue this morning. Emergency staff remain on high alert as fast‑moving water continues to pressure flood‑protection systems.
🚧 1st Street Northbound Closed
Northbound lanes on 1st Street remain shut down, with all traffic routed two‑ways through the southbound lane. The city says the closure is necessary as high‑velocity water reaches the roadway.
⚠️ State of Emergency Continues
Mayor Jeff Fawcett says river levels will stay high for several days, and Brandon remains under a local state of emergency. Contractors are ready to reinforce flood‑protection measures if conditions change.
🏛️ Premier Expresses Confidence in Brandon
Premier Wab Kinew says he has full confidence in Brandon’s ability to withstand any potential flooding. He says the city’s planning and preparation for this high‑water event has been impressive.
💼 Premier Defends AI Data Centre Decision
Kinew says he doesn’t regret Manitoba turning down an AI data‑centre proposal after Alberta approved one last week. He says Manitoba wants investment — but the right kind — with other projects, including Nunavut partnerships, still on the table.
🏞️ Grand Valley Access Closed
Access to Grand Valley Road remains blocked, with floodwater overtaking lower campgrounds. Spruce Woods MLA Colleen Robbins says long‑term diversion solutions need to be discussed.
🔥 Extreme Heat Buckles Highways
Weekend heat buckled pavement on the Perimeter Highway, forcing a closure between Highway 1 and Saskatchewan Avenue. It’s the second stretch to fail after Highway 75 near St. Adolphe also suffered heat‑related damage.
☀️ Another Sweltering Day Ahead
Brandon faces another dangerously hot day, with humidex values expected to reach 45°C. Residents are urged to stay cool, check on vulnerable neighbours, and never leave children or pets in vehicles.
📱 Screen Time Keeps Climbing
Canadian adults now spend six hours a day on screens, with younger Canadians topping eight. Researchers say digital habits continue to dominate daily life.
📺 Streaming Surges Ahead of Cable
Streaming now accounts for 38% of TV viewing in Canada, well ahead of cable at 29%. Analysts say audiences are rapidly shifting away from traditional television.
🎉 Crowds Turn Out for Peacock Days
Despite extreme heat, strong crowds turned out for Souris Peacock Days as the festival expanded with new attractions. Organizers say volunteer support and first‑time vendors helped keep the long‑running celebration thriving.
🏫 BSD Trustee Retiring After 30+ Years
Long‑serving Brandon School Division trustee Jim Murray is stepping aside this fall after more than three decades on the board. His departure means voters will choose a new representative in October’s municipal election.
🚓 BPS Handles Heavy Weekend Call Load
Brandon Police Service responded to a packed weekend, dealing with impaired drivers, assaults, break‑and‑enters, warrant arrests, intoxicated persons and court‑order breaches. Officers also handled a train derailment and a serious vehicle‑pedestrian collision now under investigation.
🏅 Sports Shorts
⚾ Home Run Derby Tonight
Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia hosts tonight’s Home Run Derby, with eight sluggers set to put on a show. Tomorrow’s All‑Star Game features Toronto’s Dylan Cease on the mound as the 45‑51 Jays seek a stronger second half.
🌍 World Cup Semifinals Set
It’s a World Cup semifinal lineup for the ages, featuring four former champions and the world’s top four teams. France meets Spain on Tuesday, while England faces Argentina on Wednesday — the first all‑champion final four since 1990.
