SASKATOON – As rain and flooding continue in Alberta, flows will eventually move downstream and may cause problems in Saskatchewan.
As much as 150 mm of rain was forecast in the southwest areas of Alberta this morning.
The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency (WSA) is anticipating Diefenbaker Lake and the South Saskatchewan River to start rising 2 to 3 metres this weekend.
“We usually have about 150 cubic meters a second coming through Saskatoon in the summer time we’re up about 400 right now because of the rain and the run off but because of the anticipated filling of Lake Diefenbaker they’re going to have to spill and be up to 8-900 cubic metres coming through Saskatoon,” said Doug Porteous, Meewasin Valley Authority.
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A streamflow advisory was issued on Thursday for the South and North Saskatchewan River systems.
WSA is forecasting that river levels will increase by 1 meter this weekend due to the unusually heavy rainfall in Alberta.
Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services is advising residents to exercise extreme caution around the South Saskatchewan River.
Strong river currents and slippery banks makes playing and swimming in the river extremely dangerous. Swimming in the river is prohibited within Saskatoon city limits.
Boat and watercraft safety are also important during times of elevated river levels.
WSA will continue to monitor the situation.
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