WSA spring runoff forecast varies across Saskatchewan for 2022
Global News
Despite significant amounts of snow this winter, the WSA says some areas with dry conditions at freeze-up are still predicted to have normal to below normal runoff.
A below to well-below spring runoff is forecast for most of southern Saskatchewan despite significant amounts of snow, according to the province’s Water Security Agency (WSA).
The WSA released its spring runoff report on Thursday and said conditions still vary across the province.
Below normal runoffs in the southwest could result in some water supply issues, including shortages and potentially water quality issues later in the year, the report said.
The exception in the south is areas east of Moose Jaw, where near-to-above normal runoff is possible.
In central regions, the WSA said above-to-well above runoffs are expected, however, the agency said flooding isn’t expected at this time.
The situation is different in the north, where there is a significant snowpack in the North Saskatchewan River basin.
The WSA said there is an elevated risk of a dynamic ice breakup event that could result in ice jamming and flooding similar to what occurred in 2020.
Most of Saskatchewan entered freeze-up in 2021 with drier than normal moisture conditions after hot and dry conditions persisted through most of the province during the year.
