Athabasca River, May 3, 14:30
FORT McMURRAY — Water levels are rising on several rivers in the Wood Buffalo region as spring breakup continues, even after a major ice jam on the Athabasca River has released.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo says levels increased Monday on the Clearwater River and are fluctuating due to smaller ice jams, including one near the river’s mouth and another moving downstream.
An evacuation alert remains in place for the Draper area as officials continue to monitor conditions.
The municipality says an ice jam watch is still in effect for the Clearwater River, where breakup is expected in the coming days and water levels may continue to rise and fall temporarily.
Officials say spring runoff from a heavier-than-usual winter snowpack is also contributing to elevated water levels on the Hangingstone River, Saline Creek and other waterways across the region.
The Regional Emergency Coordination Centre remains active and is monitoring conditions closely, with flood protection measures staged in areas such as Waterways, Ptarmigan Court and Grayling Terrace if needed.
Localized overland flooding has been reported in some neighbourhoods, including Timberlea and Wood Buffalo, though officials say this is related to runoff rather than river breakup.
Several areas remain closed due to flooding and safety concerns, including the Snye parking lot, Morimoto Drive, Raphael Cree Park and boat launch, Tom Weber Park and boat launch, and Sarah Holden Dog Park.
Residents are being urged to stay away from riverbanks, avoid closed areas and keep children and pets clear of affected zones, as conditions can change quickly.
Officials say updates will continue as breakup progresses, with the next update expected Tuesday.
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