High Streamflow Advisory issued for Liard River

FORT NELSON, B.C. —  The River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for the Liard River, warning of fast-flowing rivers. 

According to an advisory issued on June 18th, “warm and showery weather in northern B.C. and the Yukon is leading to increased snowmelt and runoff.”

“This pattern is expected to continue through Friday [June 19th], followed by steadier increases in temperatures over the weekend and into early next week,” the advisory said. 

The advisory said the Liard River has been steadily rising as the watershed approaches the peak of the freshet season, when melting winter snowpack and heavy spring rains can lead to rapid, high-volume flows in rivers and streams. 

According to the Government of British Columbia, a high streamflow advisory is issued when “river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but no major flooding is expected, but minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.” 

Current flows on the river at Upper Crossing in the Yukon measure 1,790 cubic metres per second and 5,450 cubic metres per second at Lower Crossing.

The forecast centre said it will continue to monitor conditions and provide an update as needed. 

Residents can find online information on preparing for potential flood hazards.