Slow river always welcome
Anything can still happen but at least for now, flooding doesn’t look like a 2018 problem
A slow-flowing river is good news at this time of year when flooding is at its most plausible.
While last week’s rains seemed significant, it was not enough to have a big impact on streams and the river, says Alberta Environment. The amount of rain in the Cypress Hills last weekend did not pose a problem for the smaller streams and creeks in the area.
Recent water-level measurements indicate the South Saskatchewan River is slightly above 3.0 metres compared to the 4.5-metre depth experienced in the middle of April. Seven Persons Creek saw an upsurge late last week but it was and still is well below the level experienced in April.
Cypress County was hit with a major flood that began on June 18, 2010. It was June 23/24 that the South Saskatchewan River crested in Medicine Hat. A number of residents were evacuated from their homes, and preparations had even been made for a temporary “hospital” on the north side of the river. A number of residents experienced what were termed “sinkholes” around the foundations of their homes, and ultimately a number were demolished.
This flood precipitated the decision of council to commence construction of berms in several locations along the river to provide protection for the future.
Although there was quite a bit of snow in the mountains this winter, a lot of it melted in May. The recent cooler temperatures around the province have seen that taper off, says Alberta Environment. It also means ice jams are no longer a concern in terms of creating a quick rise in water levels.
With the snow melt basically under control it would take significant rain to create flooding conditions.
Alberta Environment says it can only forecast five days in advance with confidence, and for the next five days there is nothing to be concerned about.