High river flows prompt the return of precautionary closures in Medicine Hat

City crews are installing barricades and signage in affected areas, and residents are being asked to obey all closures and avoid low-lying trails near the river.

The city said the closures are less extensive than those implemented during the first high-water event in early June, when river flows peaked at 1,610 cubic metres per second.

Officials said precautions were scaled back after assessing the impacts of that event while continuing to prioritize public safety.

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READ: City of Medicine Hat implementing precautions due to high river flow (Jun 2, 2026)

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Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services are also urging residents to stay out of the South Saskatchewan River, as Deputy Chief of Operations Douglas Gill warns that fast-moving water, strong currents, debris and unstable banks can create dangerous conditions even when the river appears calm from shore.

Residents are being advised to avoid recreational activities on or near the river, including boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, tubing, swimming and shoreline fishing while high-water conditions persist.

The city said local waterways, including Seven Persons Creek and Ross Creek, remain stable, and there is no anticipated risk to the Water Treatment Plant, Wastewater Treatment Plant or municipal pump stations.

Officials will continue monitoring river conditions in coordination with the Alberta River Forecasting Centre and will provide updates when it is safe to lift the closures.

by Jett Schwaier

High river flows prompt the return of precautionary closures in Medicine Hat

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