(file photo/paNOW Staff)

By Mat Barrett

Ice Jamming

Water Security Agency warns of ice jamming likely along North Saskatchewan River

Apr 20, 2020 | 5:44 PM

The Water Security Agency (WSA) is cautioning residents of Saskatchewan about ice jamming that is likely to occur on the North Saskatchewan River with the spring melt.

Ice jamming occurs when ice starts to break up along the river, and the ice along the river acts like a dam. It happens very quickly and could result in localized flooding. Once it releases, it could also create increased flow downstream.

The WSA has put an advisory out that stretches from the Alberta border down to the confluence with the South Saskatchewan River just downstream of Prince Albert. That means residents in Prince Albert could see some flooding, or higher than normal water levels.

“Sometimes ice jams can cause shoreline damage too,” said Patrick Boyle with the WSA. “So, certainly something to be aware of going through the city and anyone who’s along those sections.”

Boyle added some farmers may have infrastructure along the river in other portions of the province and they should be aware of what’s to come.

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Some of the highest risk areas for localized flooding ice jamming could be seen along Highway 16 up to the Churchill River.

The melt could result in increased flows along the Saskatchewan River, which could ultimately lead to higher water levels in places including Tobin and Codette lakes. However, Boyle said those areas may not see as much of an effect.

“It’s something to look for,” he said. “We just don’t know how some of those ice jams develop. They typically do break up on their own, but sometimes if you have a surge like that, that’s when that water moves down stream, then you have to look out for that.”

Nipawin and E.B. Campbell dams are also expected to see large increases in outflows as well.

Boyle added do not venture out onto any ice jams. He said water continues to flow below it which could be very dangerous.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6