The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is urging caution when crossing on any stream this winter due to the risk of thin ice resulting from stream flow. This includes streams which normally do not flow in the winter.
Above-normal precipitation during this past summer and fall has left much of the eastern portion of Saskatchewan saturated. Rivers and creeks are flowing at rates well above normal for this time of year and some streams, which are normally dry in fall, are flowing. It is anticipated that these flows will continue throughout the winter creating thin ice hazards.
In addition to flow from precipitation, releases will be made at numerous lakes in an effort to reduce their level prior to spring runoff to alleviate the potential for flooding. Many of these releases will continue throughout the winter. Winter releases will be made from Alameda Reservoir, Good Spirit Lake, last Mountain Lake and all lakes along the Qu'Appelle River system (Echo, Pasqua, Mission, Katepwa, Crooked and Round lakes). Stream flow under ice is an extremely serious thin ice hazard and persons on or near these lakes and rivers should use extreme caution.
Due to these releases, flow throughout the winter will be significantly higher than typical on the Qu'Appelle River, Moose Mountain Creek and the Souris River from Oxbow to Minot. Thin ice could occur at any point along these rivers, especially near bridges, culverts, or crossings.
The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority does not mark off potential hazards associated with ice conditions and those who choose to venture out onto the ice do so at their own peril. It is up to the individual to ensure that the ice is safe for the activities planned. The safest approach is to stay away from the river and stay off the ice.
The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority will monitor the situation and issue updates as new information becomes available. Spring runoff forecasts, with estimated spring peaks for the lakes, will also be issued monthly and posted on the Authority's website.
