Public Warned to Stay Away from South Saskatchewan River as Flows Surge

Residents are being urged to avoid activities on and around the South Saskatchewan River as the Water Security Agency (WSA) prepares to significantly increase water releases from Gardiner Dam.
The agency announced that it will begin operating the spillway at Gardiner Dam to release additional water from Lake Diefenbaker in response to recent precipitation in Alberta and increasing inflows into the reservoir.
Beginning June 7th, outflows are expected to increase from approximately 280 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to about 700 m³/s. Peak outflows are anticipated around June 11th before gradually decreasing over the following week.
The increase represents flow levels well above normal for this time of year. Typical flows on the South Saskatchewan River are approximately 160 m³/s, making the projected conditions more than four times the seasonal average.
Local safety advocates are warning that the increased flow presents serious risks to anyone entering the water.
According to one public safety advisory, 280 to 450 m³/s is considered the maximum flow rate that even an advanced swiftwater rescue technician can effectively manage. At the projected 700 m³/s flow rate, river conditions could exceed the ability of rescuers to safely conduct water rescues.
The increased outflows are expected to raise water levels by approximately 1.4 metres through the Moon Lake area and by about 0.6 metres in Saskatoon. Officials say no out-of-bank flooding is anticipated at this time, but river conditions will become significantly more dangerous due to stronger currents and increased water velocity.
The WSA said the decision to increase releases was made following heavy rainfall in Alberta and forecasts of above-normal mountain runoff expected later this month. Recent precipitation and warmer temperatures have caused flows in the South Saskatchewan River headwaters to rise rapidly.
With spillway operations underway, the agency is urging the public to stay well clear of Gardiner Dam and to carefully assess any activities near the river.
“The South Saskatchewan River downstream of the dam to the City of Saskatoon will also rise and see an increase in velocity,” the WSA stated. “Flows at this level can pose a serious safety risk for residents and recreational users in and around the water at this time of year.”
Officials are encouraging residents to avoid boating, paddling, swimming, fishing from unstable shorelines, and other recreational activities near the river until conditions improve.
The WSA will continue monitoring conditions and updating information on Lake Diefenbaker operations as needed. Visit https://wsask.ca/ to learn more about water levels and be sure to stay safe if you are planning nay activities on or near the river.