SAFETY NOTICE: RIVER LEVEL FORECAST TO RISE
For Release: Monday, May 13, 2014
The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority will be increasing outflows over the next few days from 370 cubic metres per second (m3/s) to 800 m3/s. This will result in the current water level on the South Saskatchewan River downstream of Gardiner Dam rising by approximately 1.4 m. It’s anticipated that the higher river flows will remain in place for the remainder of May.
This increase in outflow is a proactive seasonal release in response to the above normal snowpack in the mountains and above average lake level for this time of year. No out-of-bank flooding is expected to occur as a result of this operation.
With this planned release and normal inflow over the next two weeks, WSA expects to lower the reservoir approximately 0.8 m, providing additional flood storage in the event of above normal rainfall in late May and June.
The 10-day forecast for stream flows and any other relevant updates will be posted to the WSA’s website at wsask.ca.
Saskatoon Fire Department advises residents to exercise extreme care and caution around the river throughout this period of elevated water levels.
In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.