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High water flows expected for Saskatchewan River

NIPAWIN — The Water Security Agency is warning of high stream flows in the North Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Rivers.
Sask River
Photo by Google

NIPAWIN — The Water Security Agency is warning of high stream flows in the North Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Rivers.

A large low-pressure system has resulted in a significant portion of the basin located upstream of Edmonton receiving 40-60 mm of rainfall thus far, with additional accumulations expected today.

Based on current forecasts, a peak flow of about 1,600 square metres per second is expected to arrive at the Alberta-Saskatchewan boundary on May 26 or 27.  It will reach the Battlefords around May 28, Prince Albert on May 30 or 31, and Codette and Tobin Lakes around June 1.

Depending on the location, water levels are expected to increase by about 1.0 to 3.0 metres from current levels, with water levels increasing, on average, by 1.6 m at the Battlefords and 2.0 m at Prince Albert.

The Water Security Agency said there should be a “small impact” on water levels around Codette and Tobin Lakes.

While widespread flooding is not expected, the agency said those located along the river are advised to take any necessary precautions to protect infrastructure such as pumps.