River Breakup Community update – April 30, 2026 – 5 p.m.

An ice run from the Town of Athabasca has moved closer but has not reached the existing ice jam near Fort McMurray. This ice run continues to be monitored, and it is still expected to reach Fort McMurray over the coming days. 

Draper remains under an Evacuation Alert. The Regional Emergency Coordination Centre (RECC) remains active and continues to monitor river breakup conditions closely.  

Provincial river forecasters continue to conduct daily flights over the river to assess conditions. They flew this afternoon and reported that the ice jam near Fort McMurray has melted approximately 5 km since yesterday’s flight and is now approximately 19.5 metres long. 

Water Treatment and Water Quality 

The Fort McMurray Water Treatment Plant is operating as normal. There are no concerns with water supply or water quality in Fort McMurray.   

Local Conditions

Warm temperatures and sunshine are helping to gradually break down ice within Fort McMurray. This natural melting process is expected to continue.  

We will keep the community informed as conditions evolve.  

The Municipality is in close contact with the provincial river forecasters. Further updates will be provided as conditions change.     

Overland flooding is occurring in some low-lying areas, which is common during river breakup. The following areas are closed:   

• Snye parking lot   
• Morimoto Drive   
• Raphael Cree Park and boat launch   
• Tom Weber Park and boat launch   
• Sarah Holden Dog Park   

Important Safety Reminders   

• Stay away from riverbanks, ice and flowing water.   
• Do not enter closed areas.   
• Keep children and pets away from affected areas.   

Getting too close puts you and first responders at risk.    

Other Trusted Information Sources    

• Alberta Rivers - Check the provincial rivers website to find information on the status of all rivers in the province: rivers.alberta.ca