Moisture conditions continue to vary across the province, with a wider band across northern and central Saskatchewan likely to see near-normal runoff, according to the Water Security Agency (WSA).
Compared to the February spring runoff report, conditions for March show that areas around Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Melfort and La Ronge will see almost normal runoff conditions, the report explained. Snowpack levels are higher throughout central Saskatchewan, while pockets of southwest Saskatchewan are also expected to receive near-normal runoff, including Kindersley, Leader and Cypress Hills.
Lower moisture conditions continue to affect many parts of central and southern Saskatchewan, with a band of below-normal runoff expected to encompass North Battleford, Swift Current and Regina, the report continued. Most of the far south, including Assiniboia, Estevan and Weyburn, are anticipated to see well-below-normal runoff.
Conditions over south-central and southeastern areas — including east of Highway 4 and south of Highway 1 — are particularly dry and could face snowmelt runoff. While surface water supplies at larger reservoirs are expected to be met this year, users who rely on smaller reservoirs or dugouts could see shortages continue or emerge in 2021 if snowpack conditions do not improve.
Ice on bodies of water does post a risk during the melt period, the report said. While the risk of ice-jamming is lower this spring with the expectation of below-normal runoff, ice on water bodies does become unpredictable and dangerous at this time and should be avoided.
“WSA reminds the public that the runoff potential and response can change depending on future snow accumulations and water during the melt,” the report added. “WSA will monitor conditions through to the completion of the runoff event.
“A final runoff report is expected to be issued in early April unless runoff is complete or near-complete over most areas.”
