River Breakup Community Update – April 23, 2026

Recent river snowmobile rescue is an important reminder to keep off ice this time of year

There has been no significant movement of ice on the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers yet. 

Alberta Environment and Protected Areas River Forecasters report that ice on the Athabasca River is degrading but remains intact. Small open leads continue to develop near the rapids upstream of Fort McMurray.

River forecasters will continue to monitor the rivers for changes in conditions. Colder temperatures, and a potential 15 to 25 cm of snow in the Fort McMurray area, may impact river breakup progress this week.

The next river breakup update will be published when there is new information to share with the community. 

Stay off ice, stay away from riverbanks during breakup

On Tuesday, April 21, first responders were called to assist an individual on a snowmobile who became stuck on broken ice on the Athabasca River, near Fort McKay. While no serious injuries were reported, the incident is a reminder to not travel on the ice as river breakup approaches, and ice begins to deteriorate. 

Stay away from riverbanks as ice can move without warning, and water levels can change quickly. 

Be prepared for river breakup

The municipality continues to offer a residential sandbag program. Free sandbags and materials are available at RMWB Satellite Yard - 28 Silin Forest Road. The area is fenced and gated, so call Pulse to arrange an appointment. In preparation for hazard season, residents can:

• Take proactive measures to prepare households 
• Review community emergency management plans
• Create a household emergency plan.
• Prepare an emergency kit
• Become familiar with your insurance policy

Stay informed – follow trusted sources

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

• Subscribe to receive river breakup updates in your inbox 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 more information contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or (Toll Free) at 1-800-973-9663.