Inflows into one of the rivers in Saskatchewan have reached levels equivalent to a 1-in-200-year event, driven by the rapid melting of an above-average snowpack, according to the Water Security Agency of the province. This has resulted in extensive flooding in various regions in the northwest, northeast, and east-central areas of Saskatchewan. While water levels are receding in some flooded areas, peak flows are not expected for another four to six days, as per Leah Clark from the Water Security Agency.
The late and quick thaw, along with the higher-than-usual snowpack and late spring snowstorms, have led to significant runoff in northwestern and northeastern Saskatchewan. High flows were observed over the weekend in the northern sections of the Quill Lakes basin, the headwaters of Carrot River, and parts of the Assiniboine River basin, reported Clark.
Inflows into the Carrot River have reached levels as high as a 1-in-200-year event near Armley, with some tributaries in the Quill Lakes basin experiencing at least a 1-in-50-year event. These conditions have triggered local states of emergency and road closures due to washouts across the affected region.
Joyce Drummond, the mayor of Quill Lake, mentioned conversations with long-time residents who expressed that the flooding is unprecedented in their experience. The village’s lift station, responsible for managing sewage and stormwater, became overwhelmed over the weekend, leading to backups in some streets and flooding in basements.
In the northwest, the community of Patuanak is isolated from the rest of the province due to flooding, a stark contrast to the wildfires that affected the area last summer. The combination of significant snowfall on previously burnt land and the lack of vegetation to absorb the melting snow has resulted in road washouts, cutting off access to the community.
As a result of the flooding, there are currently 15 active local emergencies in Saskatchewan, with more potentially on the way. Several communities have declared states of emergency since late April, including Foam Lake, RM of Meadow Lake, RM of Shellbrook, Town of Arborfield, RM of Lake Lenore, and RM of Lakeview.
Farmers and residents in the affected areas, such as Quill Lake, Tisdale, and Melfort, have been grappling with flooded roads and properties. The situation has forced residents like Craig Clark and Shelley Vanderbyl to witness significant land inundation and road washouts, impacting their daily routines and livelihoods.
Highway crews are working diligently to assess and repair damages, with some highways experiencing closures and reduced speeds due to flooding. The public is advised to check the Highway Hotline for updated information before traveling, as several roads in east-central and northern Saskatchewan are currently affected by flooding.
The widespread flooding has caused disruptions in communities across Saskatchewan, with road closures, local emergencies, and property damage being reported. The province continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the affected areas.