River Breakup Community Updates

The Athabasca and Clearwater rivers are being continuously monitored, and flood protection measures are in place.  Water levels have remained stable throughout the day.

Tuesday evening, water levels stabilized and there were minimal changes overnight. While this is a positive report, river breakup is still occurring and water levels can change quickly

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

An Evacuation Alert has been issued for Draper due to the potential of an ice jam flooding event along the Clearwater River. Water levels could impact egress and access on Garden Lane and River Bend Close.

An ice jam on the Athabasca River north of Fort McMurray is causing water levels to rise. The water is currently high on the Athabasca underneath the bridge, however these levels are being monitored closely. 

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 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. River forecasters will continue to monitor the rivers for changes in conditions. 

We’ve experienced a lot of winter-like weather this spring, but river breakup season is coming. As temperatures warm, ice on the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers will eventually melt and break apart.