Athabasca River, May 3, 14:30
FORT McMURRAY — The Athabasca and Clearwater Rivers are beginning to clear as the ice jam blocking the water’s flow continues to deteriorate. According to the latest update from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, warmer temperatures are helping reduce the size of the jam near Fort McMurray.
Municipal officials say the front of the ice jam has now melted past the confluence of the two rivers and has shrunk by about three kilometres since the previous day. The jam is now estimated to be about 12.5 kilometres long.
An ice run released earlier from the Town of Athabasca is expected to reach the area by tomorrow evening, where it may interact with the remaining ice and cause a temporary rise in water levels.
Water levels along both rivers have continued to fall in recent days but are expected to increase again as the incoming ice reaches Fort McMurray.
Draper remains under an evacuation alert as municipal and provincial officials continue to monitor river conditions closely.
Overland flooding has been reported in some low-lying areas, which officials say is typical during river breakup. Several locations remain closed, including the Snye parking lot, Morimoto Drive, Raphael Cree Park and boat launch, Tom Weber Park and boat launch, and the Sarah Holden Dog Park.
Officials say the Fort McMurray water treatment plant continues to operate normally, with no concerns related to water supply or quality.
Residents are being urged to stay away from riverbanks, ice and fast-moving water, and to keep children and pets clear of affected areas. Authorities say conditions can change quickly during breakup and getting too close to the river can put both the public and first responders at risk.
Daily updates on river conditions are expected to continue, with additional information available through the provincial rivers website and the municipality’s Pulse line.
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