Monitoring for Snowmelt and Overland Flooding
The Rocky Mountain snowmelt occurs each year between April and June. In late May and early June, rainfall from large weather systems occurs in Alberta, which may cause overland flooding. Rain and/or rapid snowmelt on impermeable frozen soil is the leading cause of severe flooding and erosion. For more information, see Alberta's snowmelt and its impact on Alberta rivers.
We remind licensees of their responsibility to take appropriate precautions to ensure public safety and environmental protection by minimizing the potential operational impacts because of these hazards.
All licensees must be aware of the potential for site and equipment damage from flooding and physically inspect and assess any sites and equipment that have or may potentially be affected. Caution is advised when working around or on the water, as water levels could fluctuate rapidly.
Licensees should have procedures in place for issuing flood advisories and monitoring runoff and snowmelt. Licensees should be prepared to take action to protect the public, the environment, and their operations.
Alberta Environment and Protected Areas forecasts indicate the current runoff conditions for northwest Alberta will be normal; central and northeast Alberta will see runoff well above normal; southern Alberta will be well below normal.
The weather is forecast to be in the seasonal range, which means it will be warm enough for the ice to breakup and recede downstream over the next few weeks. The potential for flooding exists along all streams and lakes in Alberta.
Please refer to the following information sources:
- Alberta River Basins website, Alberta Rivers (mobile app Google Play), or Alberta Rivers (mobile app Apple Store) for streamflow advisories and water emergency conditions
- Alberta Weather Conditions and Forecast by Location website
- Alberta Emergency Alert website or Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app
- Flood Hazard Identification Program website
- Flood Awareness Map Application website
- Alberta Flood Services and Information website
- Information on hazard preparedness is available at Alberta Hazard Preparedness website
For more information on this bulletin or questions, contact our Customer Contact Centre by phone at 403 297-8311 (1-855-297-8311 toll free) or by email at @email.