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River breakup season

Last Updated Apr 10, 2017 at 5:17 pm MDT

PHOTO: Supplied. River break camera shows images on March 30, 2017. RMWB Live Feed.

 

Regional Emergency Services (RES) is preparing residents for river breakup and the possibility of flooding.

Over the last few years Fort McMurray has seen non-eventful type breakups with a little bit of flooding along the Clearwater River and the Snye area.

This year they are predicting it to be an average break with an average risk of flooding around April 19, 2017.

River forecasters look at multiple factors, how much rain the region received in the fall, the amount of snow cover, the temperatures and ice thickness.

“As we are approaching the breakup they watch the thickness of the ice, they measure it to see how it is different from previous years or the same,” said Chris Graham, assistant deputy chief of emergency management. “As we go into break up they actively monitor what level the water is at, this is key in maintaining our readiness. Sudden changes in water levels is what we are looking for.”

Graham said that they are already starting to encounter an increased amount of flow into the river and that the water levels are starting to rise.

If the risk of flooding becomes extreme the RMWB will begin to follow their evacuation plan, which is focuses mostly on the lower town site but includes Waterways and Mac Island.

River Break up 1

 

“Those who live in risk areas should really be prepared as individuals and families of what they need to do in the event of an evacuation,” said Graham. “They need to go back to the principals of 72 hours emergency preparedness which is know the risk, have a plan and get a kit.”

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RES is urging that people “think twice about the ice” the ice and river banks are dangerous this time of year. River Breakup is only officially declared when there is no threat of flooding from ice jams.

RCMP and the RMWB would also like to remind Fort McMurray residents to follow traffic safety matters during the river breakup.

Vehicles will not be permitted to stop or park on the side of the road or any bridge during river breakup.

A live feed of the river is set up to watch safely from home.

For up to date information residents are encouraged to watch the municipality’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages.