The South Saskatchewan River seen on June 3, 2020. (CHAT News photo)

By CHAT News Today

Flowing quickly

Fire services urging Hatters to stay off the river

Jun 3, 2020 | 3:45 PM

A high flow rate has Medicine Hat Fire Services advising people to stay off the South Saskatchewan River with a number of dangers lurking near the waterbody.

Deputy assistant fire chief Chad Eakins says safe flow rates for recreational activities – such as boating, swimming or fishing – is around 100 to 400 cubic metres per second. As of Wednesday afternoon, the river’s flow rate was nearing 1,000 cubic metres.

Eakins said there are other dangers posed by the river that has risen to its highest point so far this year.

“One is the water temperature. We had an increase in water flow because of the runoff from the mountains and rain,” said Eakins. “Also, we have quite a bit more debris that’s running through the river that can be quite dangerous; one for swimmers, two for boaters and three for our responders out there.”

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

18h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

People are advised to stay off the river until the conditions improve.

Flow levels can be monitored here.

Even after flow levels go down and recreational use of the river resumes, residents are reminded to use caution and be prepared for anything on the water. All watercraft users are reminded to wear lifejackets and avoid consuming alcohol and other intoxicants. For more information on river safety, visit medicinehat.ca