Town staff met with the Alberta River Forecast Centre for an update on the spring melt and river break-up.
At this time, there are no immediate issues. River break-up is expected in the coming weeks, and conditions can change quickly depending on weather and ice movement.
While river break-up is a normal and annual process, this year’s conditions point to a higher-than-normal flood risk, and we’re continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Snowpack across the Peace River basin is above average, and conditions are being closely tracked in coordination with the Alberta River Forecast Centre. While there is still uncertainty in how the spring melt will unfold, current conditions support taking a proactive approach.
Conditions indicate a thermal break-up – where ice warms up and simply melts into the river – is unlikely, and it is more likely to be a dynamic break-up – where the force of the river physically breaks the ice to get it to move. This dynamic break-up is expected to originate in the Smoky River, pushing into the Peace River. All of this can change depending on how circumstances develop.
The Town is increasing monitoring and preparedness efforts, and provincial staff will be on the ground during break-up to support observation and response.
Residents are encouraged to take basic steps now to prepare.
If you live in a low-lying or historically flood-prone area, you should be actively preparing and planning for potential impacts. That means Lower West Peace, the downtown (especially near the Heart River and Pat's Creek), and the North End.
Clear snow away from foundations, ensure proper drainage, check sump pumps, prepare a 72-hour emergency kit, and have a basic emergency plan in place.
We will continue to provide regular updates as conditions develop.
More information, updates, and preparedness resources can be found here: www.peaceriver.ca/2026melt
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