Spring runoff in Saskatchewan is expected to be normal, according to a spokesperson at the Water Security Agency. (file photo/paNOW Staff) 

By Ronald Quaroni

Spring runoff

Spring runoff expected to be normal: Water Security Agency

Mar 6, 2019 | 1:23 PM

As the mercury begins to creep up the positive side of the thermometer, it’s time to consider spring runoff.

The Water Security Agency (WSA) projected an average amount of runoff for the province. One area, from Meadow Lake to Prince Albert to just above North Battleford, will see an above average amount of water due to increased moisture during the fall freeze up and higher than average snowfalls.

While slightly over the normal, this area according the WSA’s, Patrick Boyle, shouldn’t be at risk of flooding.

“You could see some localized issues but overall, for most of the major systems, we’re not expecting a lot of problems,” Boyle said.

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One thing that may cause a problem as we head toward warmer weather is fast thawing snow and ice. Boyle said he hopes as we get closer to spring, weather stays between -5 Celsius and 5 C.

“We want that slow gradual melt so things come off nice and slow,” Boyle said. “What we don’t want is things running off quickly on the landscape, that’s where you get some of those flooding issues.”

(submitted photo/The Water Security Agency)

Administrators from the WSA noted in a release that winter is not over and the runoff potential could change depending on precipitation that is received.

Other than Prince Albert which edges in the above average runoff section, areas that surround North Battleford and Melfort are expecting typical runoffs this spring.

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ron.quaroni@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @RonaldQuaroni