The Drumheller Mail

River rising leads to high stream advisory for Red Deer River

Eyes are on the Red Deer River. On Wednesday afternoon, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Development issued a high stream flow warning for the river downstream of the Dickson Dam.

Fire Chief Bill Bachynski said there are no immediate risks of flooding, although the river is expected to rise.

According to Alberta Environment 30-100 millimeters of rain fell earlier this week on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains. On Tuesday afternoon, a High Stream Flow Advisory was issued for the Red Deer River upstream of the Dickson Dam.  This was upgraded to Flood Watch on Wednesday before noon, but downgraded to a High Stream Advisory by Thursday morning.

 According to Alberta Environment a High Stream Flow Advisory means that stream levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, although there is no major flooding expected. There is a possibility of minor flooding in low-lying areas. 

A Flood Watch means that stream levels are rising and could approach or exceed bank full. Flooding of areas adjacent to these streams may occur. They advise that anyone situated close to the river to take precautionary measures.

A Flood Warning means that stream levels will result in the flooding of areas adjacent to stream affected.

On Wednesday afternoon a Flood Warning was issued for the Little Red Deer River, which joins the Red Deer River downstream of the Dickson Dam.

An overview of the status of the Little Red Deer River states that the water at the mouth was expected to peak on Thursday evening at 200 cubic metres per second as increase of two metres from current levels.

For up to date information as the situation unfolds regarding the river levels, visit www.drumhellermail.com.

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