It’s time to prepare for river breakup

We’ve experienced a lot of winter-like weather this spring, but river breakup season is coming. As temperatures warm, ice on the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers will eventually melt and break apart. During this time, the rivers are monitored for ice jams that may cause a flood event to occur.

Municipal river breakup preparedness

Seasonal and permanent flood protection measures are ready and include clay berms, triple dams (water-filled barriers), pumps and underground plugs. Fewer seasonal measures are needed this year as work continues to complete all permanent flood mitigation for Fort McMurray by 2028.   

All seasonal above-ground mitigation measures were completed by April 1 and Clearwater Drive was reopened to two-way traffic. Other road and trail closures will remain in place until river breakup is complete. Follow all posted signage and stay away from equipment. 

Stay off ice, stay away from riverbanks during breakup

Do not travel on the ice as river breakup nears. Once river breakup begins, large sections of ice can move without warning and water levels can change quickly. Stay away from riverbanks.

Stay informed – follow trusted sources

As river breakup nears, updates will be shared on the municipal website.

• Find more information and subscribe to receive community updates at rmwb.ca/riverbreakup
• Follow municipal social media on Facebook and X at @rmwoodbuffalo 
• Watch river breakup from the live river breakup camera overlooking the Athabasca River.

For detailed information on river conditions, ice observation reports and ice advisories, download the AB Rivers App 

Be prepared

You can prepare for river breakup by:

• Taking proactive measures to prepare households 
• Reviewing community emergency management plans and having a household emergency plan.
• Having an emergency kit ready
• Reviewing options available through your insurance company
• Protecting vulnerable properties through the residential sandbag program.

When will river breakup happen?

There are many factors involved, including ice thickness, temperature, water levels, and more, but the short answer is that no one knows for sure. Historically, river breakup has happened as early as April 9 and as late as May 9. See past dates for river breakup on the municipal website.

For more information contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or (Toll Free) at 1-800-973-9663.

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Media inquiries:

media@rmwb.ca