Flood risk in Yukon’s Klondike region ‘above average’ this year

Ice on the Klondike River at Dawson City in April 2024. (Chris MacIntyre/CBC)

By RCI, CBC News

Higher than average snowpack for communities in lower Yukon River basin

People in Dawson City, Yukon, and other residents in the lower Yukon River basin should prepare for possible flooding this year, as above-average snowpack in the region melts.

Snowpack is one factor that contributes to high flows, water levels and flooding during the spring breakup and freshet period.

In a news release Monday, the Government of Yukon said the latest snow survey data shows the snowpack in the Klondike region is “well above average,” at 177 per cent of the lower Yukon River basin’s historical median for May 1. That means above-average flood potential for communities in the area.

The Carmacks area and the Porcupine River basin are also above average for snowpack this year, but the release notes those areas can expect average volumes of freshet runoff.

Snowpack in the Peel River basin, in the northeast region of the territory, has around average snowpack, while the Upper Yukon and Pelly basins — the Southern Lakes and Whitehorse area — are below average.

The territorial government says that it continues to coordinate with local governments and agencies to prepare for any potential flooding, ensure Yukoners are informed about flood risk and stay equipped to respond.

This article is republished from RCI.