On June 24th, the Water Security Agency (WSA) issued a High Flow Advisory for the North Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan River systems following significant rainfall across Alberta that has caused river flows to rise substantially.
According to WSA, heavy precipitation over the past week has increased water volumes throughout the river basin. The resulting surge is now moving downstream and is expected to cause water levels along the North Saskatchewan River to rise by nearly two metres in several Saskatchewan communities.
North Battleford is expected to see elevated water levels by June 26, while Prince Albert is forecast to experience similar increases by June 27. River flows are anticipated increase from approximately 450 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to as much as 1,500 m³/s.
The high-flow event will continue downstream into the Saskatchewan River system, where water levels are also expected to rise by nearly two metres.
WSA is urging residents, recreational users, and property owners along the riverbanks to exercise caution as water levels rise and flow velocities increase. Officials warn that rapidly changing conditions can create dangerous situations for boaters, swimmers, anglers, and anyone near the river.
The agency stated, that residents near the river should exercise caution due to rapidly changing water levels and increased flow velocities. These changing river conditions can create hazardous situations and pose a serious public safety risk.
Officials note that elevated river flows may persist for an extended period, as additional precipitation is forecast across the North Saskatchewan River basin. Further rainfall could sustain current levels or cause additional increases in river heights.
WSA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as conditions evolve.
Residents seeking additional information are encouraged to contact the Water Security Agency at 1-866-727-5420 or visit its website for the latest river and flood condition updates.