An Evacuation Alert has been issued for Draper due to the potential of an ice jam flooding event along the Clearwater River. Residents in the alert area do not have to leave but should be ready at a short notice.
The ice jam on the Athabasca River near Fort McMurray is causing water levels along the Clearwater River to rise. The rise in water levels is being closely monitored on the rivers.
Several areas have been closed due to flooding, including the Snye parking lot, Morrimoto Drive, Raphael Cree Park and boat launch, Tom Weber Park and boat launch, and Sarah Holden Dog Park.
Officials warned residents to stay away from riverbanks and obey closures after reports of unsafe activity near the water.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo said it continues to work closely with provincial river forecasters and will conduct another observation flight Wednesday.
Officials say no evacuation is required at this time, but access routes in low-lying areas could be impacted if conditions worsen.
Jody Butz, Director of Emergency Management for RMWB, tells CFWE that seasonal and permanent flood mitigation measures are in place as the region monitors the evacuation alert and rising flood risk, adding that in the event of an evacuation the Quality Inn inside Fort McMurray was established for Draper residents.
Butz highlights the Vulnerable Persons Registry that is available for seniors to share their location during emergencies, helping to ensure they are located if assistance is needed.
Comments