The town of Peace River was under flood alert last week, with high waterflows causing concern for ice jams forming within the boundaries of the community, putting it under imminent risk of flooding.
Areas that were under close observation were the downtown and Heart River sections of the community.
On April 23, the Town of Peace River had declared a State of Local Emergency. With the extensive amount of snow in the winter, ensuing spring melt and river break-up conditions, the primary risk to the community is ice jams occurring when ice blocks the river’s flow. This will cause water levels to rise rapidly and will sometimes lead to flooding.
“We are now in a heightened high-risk period of the spring breakup,” says Mayor Shelly Shannon.
“If you live in low-lying areas, Lower West Peace, downtown, the north end, Heart River, Pat’s Creek, you need to be ready now. Water levels can rise quickly, and conditions can change very fast.”
As of April 24, the Alberta Emergency Alert for potential flooding in Peace River was removed. However; community members are reminded to continue to be prepared for changing conditions as there is still a risk of ice jams forming.
Officials remind Peace River residents that conditions can change quickly depending on how the melt and river break-up unfolds.
“Have an emergency bag packed and ready, be prepared to leave your home quickly and at an inconvenient time,” reminds Shannon. “Make sure your household knows the plans.”
The Town will continue to monitor river and weather conditions with provincial partners and continue to coordinate with Alberta River Forecasting Centre. Town employees are ensuring storm drainage systems and other infrastructure is functioning properly and reviewing emergency response and evacuation plans.
Shannon reminds residents to clear snow away from foundations, roofs, vents, and window wells, ensure water can drain away from your home, and check sump pumps and drainage systems. She also reminds residents to prepare a 72-hour emergency kit and develop a household emergency plan to get all people and pets out safely.
“Sign up for Voyent Alert so that you’re well informed of things as they happen,” Shannon urges.
“If an evacuation alert or order is required, your phone will be automatically buzzed through the Alberta Emergency Alerts and we will also spread the information through our town channels.”
Interested residents can also follow along with the melt conditions and updates at www.peaceriver.ca/2026melt.
Photos on this page courtesy of Photos by Lori of Peace River.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
