City of Prince Albert urges visitors to exercise caution as spring runoff keeps water levels high
The City of Prince Albert says Little Red River Park will reopen to the public on Friday, May 22, including operations at Cosmo Lodge and the Knotty Pine Bistro, after temporary closures linked to elevated water conditions.
City officials, however, are warning residents that the Spruce River remains high and fast-flowing due to ongoing spring runoff, creating hazardous conditions throughout the park and surrounding shoreline areas.
In a public advisory issued ahead of the reopening, the city emphasized that visitors should remain cautious near the river and avoid entering the water as unstable banks and strong currents continue to pose safety risks.
Fire chief warns river conditions remain hazardous
“While we recognize residents are eager to return to Little Red River Park, current river conditions remain hazardous,” said Fire Chief Kris Olsen. “We strongly encourage all visitors to stay well back from the river’s edge and avoid entering the water, noting that water levels and flow rates will remain high for some time.”
The city said it continues to work with the Water Security Agency to monitor outflows from Anglin Lake and assess the potential impacts on Little Red River Park. Officials noted that updated information will help guide future decisions regarding possible park closures if conditions worsen.
The reopening comes as communities across Saskatchewan continue to manage the effects of spring runoff, which has increased water flow and raised safety concerns along rivers and waterways.
Officials outline major safety risks for park users
City officials identified several ongoing hazards linked to the current river conditions, warning that even experienced visitors could face serious risks near the water.
Strong currents and hidden dangers remain a concern
According to the advisory, fast-moving water along the Spruce River can quickly overpower individuals, making it difficult or impossible to return safely to shore. Officials warned that deceptive currents could easily knock people off their feet and carry them downstream.
The city also highlighted the danger of foot and limb entrapment, where submerged debris, rocks, or branches can trap a person underwater in swift-moving water, severely limiting opportunities for self-rescue.
Additional concerns include hidden hazards beneath the surface, such as submerged logs, sharp rocks, deep drop-offs, and floating debris concealed by higher water levels.
Cold water temperatures also remain a significant safety issue despite warmer spring weather. Officials cautioned that sudden immersion in the river could trigger cold water shock, leading to involuntary gasping, hyperventilation, and rapid loss of motor control.
Riverbanks remain unstable following runoff
The city further warned that riverbanks throughout the park may be slippery, eroded, or structurally unstable because of continued runoff and high water flow. Standing too close to the edge could result in slips, falls, or sections of riverbank collapsing into the water.
Visitors are being encouraged to closely supervise children, keep pets under control near shoreline areas, remain on designated trails whenever possible, and avoid unnecessary contact with the river.
Partial access to park will resume Friday
As part of the reopening, officials confirmed that the Highway 55 entrance to Little Red River Park will reopen on Friday, May 22. However, the West Park Gate, also known as the Pine Grove Entrance, will remain closed while authorities continue monitoring conditions in other areas of the park.
The city said officials will continue assessing river conditions and issue further updates if additional safety measures or closures become necessary.
Residents are encouraged to follow official City of Prince Albert communication channels for the latest park information and public safety updates.