The Town continues to monitor river conditions closely in coordination with the Alberta River Forecast Centre.
Recent snowpack measurements show levels remain above normal, with some variability in the Smoky River basin. Conditions still point to a higher-than-normal potential for flooding, though there are no current issues in the town.
The ice front is gradually retreating but is still well upstream of Peace River.
We are starting to see some early changes in the river locally, including small areas of open water forming near the bridges. This is a normal part of the break-up process and can help accelerate melting as conditions progress.
Warmer temperatures later this week may lead to some initial snowmelt in the Smoky River basin over the weekend. This is an area we will be watching closely, as changes in upstream conditions can influence river break-up timing.
The Town continues to increase monitoring and preparedness efforts. This includes coordination with provincial staff, who are preparing to be on-site during break-up.
On Wednesday (April 8), the Town held an emergency management meeting with partners from across the community, including emergency services, utilities, health care, education, and other local agencies. These meetings help ensure all partners are informed, coordinated, and ready to respond if conditions change.
Residents are encouraged to continue preparing.
➡ If you live in a low-lying or historically flood-prone area (Lower West Peace, Downtown around Pat's Creek and Heart River, and the North End), you should be actively preparing your property and household for potential impacts. Predicting the timing and extent of an ice jam flood is very difficult. In the event of a flood, you may need to leave your home on short notice, it may not be at a convenient time, and you may not have much time to pack.
If you live higher up, you should still take care of your property and protect against melt impacts.
Everyone should sign up for Voyent Alert, have a 72-hour emergency kit, and develop a basic household emergency plan.
We will continue to provide updates as conditions develop.
All updates on the spring break-up and melt, plus more emergency preparedness resources, are here: www.peaceriver.ca/2026melt
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