Alberta Emergency Alert- River Breakup Advisory Alert for the Athabasca River from the Town of Athabasca to Fort McMurray

Description: Alberta Emergency Alert- River Breakup Advisory Alert for the Athabasca River from the Town of Athabasca to Fort McMurray

Alberta Environment and Parks has issued a River Ice Advisory in advance of breakup on the Athabasca River from the Town of Athabasca to Fort McMurray. Although river breakup may not occur immediately, residents should be aware that river ice conditions and water levels can change rapidly.

With the onset of warmer spring temperatures, ice breakup will occur in Alberta’s rivers. The movement of the ice may result in the formation of ice jams and rapidly changing water levels. Conditions for river breakup have been developing along the Athabasca River. Movement of the ice cover at Athabasca did occur this afternoon. The ice cover on the Athabasca River has been deteriorating for the past few weeks and warming temperatures and increased snowmelt will initiate breakup in the Athabasca River basin. Water levels on the Athabasca River and its tributaries have begun to rise in result of previous precipitation and periodic warmer temperatures.

Area: Athabasca River between Athabasca and Fort McMurray

Affected areas (8):

• Lac la Biche County
• Westlock County
• Athabasca County No. 12
• Athabasca
• Wood Buffalo
• Opportunity No. 17
• Improvement District No. 24
• Fort McKay 174

Action to take:

• Be cautious of the rising water levels and take appropriate precautionary measures
• Take appropriate measures to avoid flood damage

Additional information:

• Broadcast Audio
• Alberta Environment and Parks Advisories and Warnings webpage

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