Heavy rainfall in Alberta expected to drive significant increases in North Saskatchewan River flows near Prince Albert
The Water Security Agency (WSA) has issued a High Flow Advisory for the North Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan River systems after heavy rainfall in Alberta sharply increased river flows, prompting public safety warnings for communities along the waterways, including Prince Albert.
Water levels along the North Saskatchewan River are expected to rise significantly over the coming days, with officials forecasting an increase of nearly two metres near Prince Albert by June 27, 2026. The advisory comes as upstream rainfall continues to push larger volumes of water through the river system, while additional precipitation is forecast across the basin.
According to the WSA, river flows near Prince Albert are projected to climb from approximately 450 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to around 1,500 m³/s. Elevated flows could persist for an extended period if further rainfall materializes in the watershed.
The agency warned that rapidly changing river conditions present substantial risks to residents and visitors. Faster-moving water, stronger currents and increased debris can create hazardous and unpredictable conditions along the riverbanks and on the water.
Officials are urging the public to avoid unnecessary exposure to the river while water levels remain elevated. Residents have been advised to stay out of the water, avoid low-lying areas and riverbanks until conditions improve, keep pets away from the river, and refrain from operating watercraft due to the combination of swift currents and floating debris.
The WSA emphasized that the changing conditions represent a serious public safety concern, particularly as water levels continue to rise over the coming days.
Local authorities are also monitoring the potential operational impacts of the increased river flows. At Prince Albert’s Water Treatment Plant, staff are closely tracking incoming raw water quality as higher flows can alter sediment levels and other characteristics of the source water.
Operational teams are adjusting treatment processes as required to maintain drinking water standards and ensure uninterrupted delivery of safe, high-quality water to residents.
The advisory highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring during periods of elevated river flows, particularly as weather conditions remain unsettled across parts of western Canada. River levels can change quickly depending on additional rainfall and runoff, making forecasts subject to change.
Residents seeking current information are encouraged to monitor river conditions regularly, particularly those living or working near the river or planning recreational activities in the area. Up-to-date river level information for Prince Albert remains available through the Water Security Agency’s online monitoring resources.
The agency said it will continue assessing conditions throughout the river system and issue additional updates if warranted.
In the meantime, public safety remains the primary concern as authorities work to monitor water levels and maintain essential infrastructure.
For more information, residents can visit the Water Security Agency’s website or contact the agency directly through its public information line.
Public Safety Measures
The Water Security Agency is advising residents to:
- Stay out of the water.
- Stay away from low-lying and riverbank areas until water levels recede.
- Refrain from allowing pets near the river.
- Keep watercraft off the river due to fast-moving water and increased debris.
These precautions are intended to reduce the risk of injury as river conditions remain dangerous and unpredictable during the high-flow event.