River Breakup Community Update - April 27

Ice Jam Watch issued by province; ice conditions being monitored

Provincial river forecasters are reporting that an ice jam approximately 20 km long has formed approximately 7 km upstream from the Thickwood golf course in Fort McMurray. There is a smaller ice jam 2 km upstream from the Thickwood golf course, which is not of concern at this time. 

The ice cover on the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers remain in place and intact, though there is some ponding of water on the surface in some areas. Ice conditions may change with little warning, especially as temperatures warm up.

Ice Jam Watch issued

The province has issued an Ice Jam Watch for Fort McMurray. There are no Evacuation Alerts or Orders in place at this time

The Regional Emergency Coordination Centre is actively monitoring the situation, and the River Breakup Emergency Management plan is activated, as it is each year during river breakup.

Alberta Environment and Protected Areas forecasters continue to conduct aerial surveys by helicopter and drone. The rivers are being closely monitored, and regular updates will continue to be shared with the community as conditions change and the ice breaks apart. .

Be prepared for river breakup

Residents in areas near the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers should stay informed during this time and be prepared for river breakup. Stay away from riverbanks as ice can move without warning, and water levels can change quickly.

The municipality continues to offer a residential sandbag program. Free sandbags and materials are available at the 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 should:

• 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
• Download the Alberta Emergency Alerts app

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, 1-800-973-9663 or rmwb.ca/pulse.