River Breakup Community update – May 1, 2026 – 10 a.m.
Ice jam has started to shift. Warm weather has assisted in melting of the ice jam.
The ice jam near Fort McMurray started shifting earlier this morning. It is expected that the ice jam will continue to melt in place or start moving downstream. Municipal and provincial officials continue to monitor river water levels and conditions. River water levels on the Clearwater River rose slightly overnight due to snowmelt. River water levels on the Athabasca River have continued to decrease.
It’s critical to stay away from riverbanks while river breakup continues. The river is unpredictable and sudden changes in water levels can make riverbanks very dangerous.
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 are scheduled to fly this morning and will provide an update this afternoon.
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:
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Snye parking lot
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Morimoto 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, ice and flowing water.
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Do not enter closed areas.
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Keep children and pets away from affected areas.
Getting too close puts you and first responders at risk.
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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