ESTEVAN - The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency has released an updated forecast for spring runoff.
In the section on the Souris River basin, It notes a rapid rise in flows on Long Creek resulted in the activation of the Boundary-to-Rafferty diversion canal on Thursday, according to the WSA. Water is being diverted at a rate of 40 cubic metres per second to Rafferty Reservoir, where the WSA says ample storage exists. Elsewhere in the basin, melt is in the early stages and the WSA will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they develop.
Warming temperatures have meant that runoff is now underway across most of the southern part of the province, the WSA said. A rapid melt has brought about higher than forecast runoff for some parts of the south, particularly along the Swift Current Creek where there has been localized flooding in the city of Swift Current.
The WSA reminds the public that flows along water bodies can change rapidly at this time of year and urges the public to take caution. If you observe an ice jam, keep your distance as the ice can shift or crumble causing injury.
In the event where a situation exceeds the coping capacities of the local authority or where the local authority requires extra support and/or resources, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) can provide additional assistance. SPSA can be reached by calling 1.800.667.9660, and further information on submitting a request for assistance can be found here.
The WSA says it will provide regular updates throughout the runoff period and as conditions
