Peace River residents can breathe a sigh of relief Friday morning as municipal officials cancelled an urgent flood alert that had put the entire northwestern Alberta community on edge just hours earlier.
However, town leaders are cautioning against any sense of complacency. While the immediate threat has receded, conditions remain precarious.
"While there is no longer an imminent risk of flooding at this time, continue to be prepared for changing conditions," stated an Alberta Emergency Alert advisory Friday.
The dramatic situation unfolded Thursday when Peace River—located roughly 385 kilometres northwest of Edmonton—declared a state of local emergency and ordered residents to prepare for potential evacuation as the Heart River and surrounding areas faced flooding danger.
What Changed Overnight?
Water levels on the Heart River have dropped since Thursday's alert, easing the immediate crisis. However, officials say the risk of ice jam formation persists within town limits, keeping the situation fluid and unpredictable.
Pat Fisher, the town's director of infrastructure and development, explained the root cause to CBC News: an above-average snowpack combined with prolonged warm temperatures has created dangerous conditions.
"A very high prolonged temperature can definitely increase flows, and that's actually what's contributed to the situation we're seeing right now," Fisher said.
The town's staff continue monitoring at-risk waterways closely, ready to sound the alarm again if conditions deteriorate.
Peace River Knows This Threat Well
This isn't the first time the community has braced for disaster. Just six years ago, in April 2020, Peace River declared a state of local emergency when an ice jam triggered significant flooding. That experience has informed current response protocols.
Mayor Shelly Shannon acknowledged the stress the repeated threat places on residents while emphasizing community resilience.
"It's stressful on the residents, but we have to remember that we are a river town. We've been here before and we will be here again," Shannon said. "We just have to look after each other. Check on your neighbors and be ready to respond when an incident does come down."
Stay Alert, Stay Prepared
Those living in low-lying areas have been urged not to lower their guard. Town officials recommend residents keep emergency bags packed, ensure vehicles have fuel, gather important documents and medications, and have pets ready for potential rapid evacuation.
Friday's alert emphasized that residents should remain updated through official town communication channels and continue monitoring forecasts as spring weather patterns evolve across the region.
This article is based on reporting by CBC Edmonton.