River breakup complete: April 25, 2023

(Fort McMurray, AB – April 25, 2023) – River breakup is now complete. This means there is no longer a significant risk of ice jams causing flooding along the Clearwater and Athabasca rivers in Fort McMurray and surrounding areas.

“I’m happy to note that we experienced a safe, thermal breakup this year with ice largely melting in place,” said Jody Butz, RMWB Director of Emergency Management and Regional Fire Chief. “On behalf of the Municipality, I’d like to thank the entire community for their support keeping neighbourhoods safe by staying informed and preparing for river breakup. Flooding caused by ice jams is impossible to predict, so we still need to be prepared and stay vigilant every spring.”

Stay away from riverbanks

Several small ice runs are still expected to pass through for the next few days. This is normal and is not a concern. Anyone taking part in activities near rivers should still be cautious and keep a safe distance from shorelines. Riverbanks are still dangerous due to fast moving water and the water is very cold.

Removal of temporary flood mitigation

Crews are removing equipment and temporary/seasonal flood mitigation to begin cleaning up and reopening areas as soon as possible. Clearwater Drive is expected to be fully reopened before the Victoria Day holiday.

Triple dams will be emptied of water before being inspected and stored for future use. The interim/temporary clay berms will remain in place until permanent flood mitigation projects are complete in those areas.

Please follow all posted signage, keep a safe distance from equipment and do not enter closed areas. 

Construction of permanent flood mitigation  

The work to reduce flood risk continues with construction of multiple permanent mitigation projects this summer.

Find more information on flood mitigation projects at rmwb.ca/floodmitigation

Free sandbag disposal

The sandbag program is now closed. Filled sandbags may be dropped off free-of-charge at the Snye Parking Lot adjacent to playground, at the end of Father Mercredi Street.

Further updates will be provided once available. After the drop-off location closes, sandbags can be brought to the Municipal landfill for disposal.

For more information on river breakup, visit rmwb.ca/riverbreakup. 

For questions, call Pulse at 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663.