River Breakup Community update – April 28, 2026 - 5 p.m.
Evacuation alert remains in effect for Draper, ice jam causing overland flooding in low lying areas
Current situation:
Alberta Environment and Protected Areas conducted an observation flight earlier today. They have reported the following:
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An ice jam on the Athabasca River north of Fort McMurray is causing water levels to rise. Water is high on the Athabasca river underneath the bridge, however these levels are being monitored closely.
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The ice jam has raised water levels at Fort McMurray by nearly 7 metres. The ice jam is about 25 km long extending upstream past the Fort McMurray Golf Club.
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Water levels continue to rise on the Clearwater River at a slow but consistent pace.
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Overland flood impacts in low-lying areas in Draper and near the Snye are occurring.
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The ice jam is expected to remain in place and melt as there are currently no incoming ice runs or runoff waves. Snowmelt in the area is expected to increase this week as temperatures warm.
The Municipality is in close contact with the provincial river forecasters. The next observation flight is scheduled for tomorrow.
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Overland flooding is occurring in some low-lying areas, which is common during river breakup. The following areas are closed:
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Snye parking lot
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Morrimoto Drive
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Raphael Cree Park and boat launch
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Tom Weber Park and boat launch
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Sarah Holden Dog Park
Important Safety reminders:
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Stay away from riverbanks and flowing water.
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Do not attempt to access closed areas.
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Keep children and pets away from affected areas.
We have seen unsafe activity near the river. Getting too close puts you and first responders at risk.
The Municipality and provincial officials continue to monitor conditions closely and will provide updates as needed.
An Evacuation Alert remains in effect for Draper. Residents in the alert area do not have to leave but should be ready to evacuate on short notice.
Be prepared during river breakup
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Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit
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Make an emergency plan
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Be aware and stay informed by following official and trusted channels such as RMWB.ca/alerts and Municipal Twitter (X) or Facebook
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Download the Alberta Emergency Alerts App
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Arrange with neighbours to advise one another of an emergency notification
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Review your tenant and/or home insurance policies in case you need to use it.
Where to find emergency/evacuation alerts and information
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Download the Alberta Emergency Alert App.
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Go to the RMWB municipal website: rmwb.ca/alerts
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On social media, follow the RMWB Facebook page and Twitter (X) @RMWoodBuffalo page for important community updates.
Other trusted information sources
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Alberta Rivers - Check the provincial rivers website to find information on the status of all rivers in the province: https://rivers.alberta.ca/
For questions or further information, please call Pulse at 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663.
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