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

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

A River Ice Advisory remains in effect for river ice breakup on the Athabasca River from the Town of Athabasca to Fort McMurray. An ice run was reported this morning at the Town of Athabasca. Ice runs downstream of Athabasca will occur as breakup progresses towards Fort McMurray. The ice cover in Fort McMurray remains intact although it continues to deteriorate.

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. The ice cover on the Athabasca River has been deteriorating for the past few weeks. Breakup occurred today at the Town of Athabasca and it is expected that ice runs will be seen downstream of the Town as breakup progresses. Additional ice runs from upstream may continue to be seen at Athabasca over the next few days. Observation reports can be found at the Alberta Environment and Parks website http://www.environment.alberta.ca/forecasting/RiverIce/AthabascaRiverArchive.html

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 rapidly rising and changing 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

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