Saskatoon River Surges: Expert Paddlers Only This Weekend!

The South Saskatchewan River in Saskatoon is experiencing its highest water levels in six years, prompting safety warnings from officials for the upcoming weekend. Flow rates are predicted to reach 700 cubic metres per second, a significant increase from the usual 160 cubic metres per second and below 300 before Thursday. This surge is attributed to substantial snowmelt in the Rocky Mountains and rainfall in Alberta, necessitating water releases from the Gardiner Dam. The bulk of this water is reaching Saskatoon this weekend, though flooding is not anticipated as levels are expected to be half of those seen in 2011.

City officials, including the Saskatoon Fire Department's deputy chief, are strongly advising the public to avoid the river. They state that only expert paddlers with whitewater experience would be able to use the river safely, and the strong currents pose a risk even to rescue divers. Saskatchewan Search and Rescue concurs, recommending caution for flows between 600 to 800 cubic metres per second. Despite these warnings, some rowing trainers are proceeding with events, albeit with increased safety measures, citing familiarity with tidal waterways as a reason for their less concerned approach.