Photo: Gardiner Dam / Water Security Agency website
The Water Security Agency is warning the South Saskatchewan River will rise significantly as flows increase from Gardiner Dam.
The agency says outflows from Lake Diefenbaker are expected to jump from about 280 cubic metres per second to roughly 700 starting June 7, with peak flows anticipated around June 11.
Those levels are well above the typical flow of about 160 cubic metres per second for this time of year.
As a result, water levels are expected to rise by about 1.4 metres near Moon Lake and roughly 0.6 metres in Saskatoon.
The increase is linked to recent rainfall in Alberta and higher-than-normal runoff entering the system.
Officials say no out-of-bank flooding is expected, but they are urging the public to use caution around the river, noting faster flows can pose serious safety risks.
The agency says it will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates on Lake Diefenbaker operations regularly; visit: https://wsask.ca/recreation-environment/lake-diefenbaker-updates/.
For more information, please contact WSA at 1.866.727.5420 or visit: wsask.ca.