The Water Security Agency (WSA) is advising the public of the potential for ice jams on Swift Current Creek, the Moose Jaw River, the Qu'Appelle River, and the Wood River following recent rapid melting and runoff.
Ice jams increase the risk of potential flooding as they disrupt normal flows and can cause water to breach embankments.
While ice jams are not uncommon this time of year, higher than previously predicted water flows have been recorded or are expected on Swift Current Creek, the Moose Jaw River, the Qu'Appelle River, and the Wood River, the WSA said. Ice is still present on these watercourses.
WSA will divert water on the Swift Current Main Canal to reduce flows through the City of Swift Current and temporarily cease outflows at Duncairn Dam.
Runoff within the headwater areas of the Moose Jaw River basin is higher than expected. Flows on the Moose Jaw River are expected to be similar to March 2022, when the channel through Moose Jaw was at capacity.
WSA is also undertaking preparations and operations along the Qu'Appelle River system to manage flows; however, this will not reduce the risk of ice jamming.
Residents are advised to be aware of the potential for ice jamming and possible flooding upstream where it occurs.
The public should exercise caution as ice jams can be highly dynamic, resulting in rapid changes in water levels, the WSA said. Under no circumstances should anyone venture out onto an ice jam.
Warmer temperatures and higher flow rates may weaken the integrity of ice and reduce the potential for ice jamming.
WSA will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates on the potential for ice jamming and possible flooding as conditions develop.
