REGINA – The Water Security Agency (WSA) released its first forecast for the 2014 runoff and if it holds up, it could be a wet spring for the Prince Albert, Sask. region.
The agency is predicting a well above normal runoff for the Prince Albert area, with above normal runoff forecast for the Saskatoon, North Battleford, Meadow Lake and La Ronge regions.
Near normal runoff is expected for the remainder of the province.
“Although most of the province is looking at a near normal situation, the Saskatoon, North Battleford and Prince Albert regions could again be facing some significant challenges with the threat of higher than normal water levels,” said Ken Cheveldayoff, the minster responsible for the WSA.
Winter precipitation has ranged from below average in the southwest to well above average in the Prince Albert region.
Precipitation in the fall before freeze-up was below normal except for central Saskatchewan which was well above normal.
WSA said the February runoff forecast is based on limited precipitation data and should be used as a general guide for large areas. Local conditions may vary significantly.
Above normal precipitation prior to spring runoff and/or a fast melt could result in higher flows and significantly alter the forecast.
A more detailed runoff forecast will be prepared in early March and April.
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