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The Water Security Agency (WSA) is advising the public of increased flows on the South Saskatchewan River between the border with Alberta and Lake Diefenbaker.

Significant rainfall in Southern Alberta and parts of Southern Saskatchewan is forecast for this weekend, which is expected to increase flows in the South Saskatchewan River and its tributaries. In preparation for this rainfall, Alberta began increasing reservoir releases this past week to make room for storage in its reservoirs in the impacted area.

Large amounts of precipitation in a short period of time is likely to increase runoff into the South Saskatchewan River and other waterbodies between the western border and Lake Diefenbaker.

WSA expects to see flows along the South Saskatchewan River increase from 100 cubic meters per second (m³/s) to around 830 m³/s. Flows along tributaries are also expected to increase as the weather system passes. Peak flows are expected to occur around June 26 of next week.

Lake Diefenbaker has sufficient storage to capture the increases in inflows, but WSA will increase outflows on the South Saskatchewan to better manage the expected increases to lake levels at the reservoir. WSA expects lake levels at Lake Diefenbaker to rise over 1 m in the next 10 days as a result of this weather system.

Outflows on the South Saskatchewan River between Lake Diefenbaker and Saskatoon are expected to increase from their current rate of 65 m³/s to 75 m³/s.

Forecast inflows and lake levels may differ from actuals. These forecasts are based on the latest data available but can be higher or lower depending on rainfall intensity, duration, and location.

WSA advises the public to always take sensible precautions around lakes and rivers and be aware that flows and levels can change rapidly and without warning. Please check local conditions before venturing on or near water bodies.

WSA will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they develop.

For media only:

1.866.727.5420
Comm@wsask.ca