The Yukon government is keeping a close watch as an above-average snowpack in many regions sets the stage for potential spring flooding.

But officials say the risk will be determined by weather patterns in the coming weeks and how rapidly snow melts. 

E-J Bercier, a hydrologist with the Yukon government’s water science and stewardship branch, says she is particularly keeping her eye on the Teslin/Big Salmon region which currently has the highest snowpack in the territory. She said it’s about 20 per cent lower than the peak snowpack seen in 2022, “that led to moderate flooding in the region.”

The high snowpack means there’s an elevated flood risk this spring for the community of Teslin, as well as downstream in Carmacks. The Upper Liard and Klondike Valley regions, where snowpack is also well above historical averages, are also at elevated risk.

“We’re waiting for the upcoming April 1 snow surveys as well as ice thickness measurements to really determine what the ice jam risk is for the Klondike [River],” said Bercier. 

While the Southern Lakes area has an above-average snowpack, Bercier explained that the flood risk there is still a “wait-and-see” situation.

Flood risk is considered low for Marsh Lake. Average snowpack combined with below-average groundwater mean the lake has ample room to absorb spring inflows. 

However, officials say April snowpack data is typically the better predictor of flood potential.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is expecting April to be colder than average in the territory, followed by a shift to hot, dry conditions in May. That’s a combination that could rapidly accelerate snowmelt and increase flood risk.  

Bercier says the government will monitor conditions in the weeks ahead and issue public advisories as needed. She also encouraged residents to monitor the government’s online flood hub for real-time updates.

‘We’ve been here before’

Teslin Mayor Gord Curran says people in his community are already talking about how to prepare. The village saw significant flooding in 2021 and 2022.

“I think people are a little concerned, for sure,” he said. “But we’ve been here before, so I think they’re trying to balance out some concern with also being prepared.” 

George Blackjack, director of Yukon’s Emergency Measures Organization (EMO), says each municipal and First Nation government has their own emergency plan in place for a potential flood event. 

“EMO has emergency planners that go out to the communities and assist with this work, and they also assist with training and tabletop exercises, to help those communities prepare,” said Blackjack. 

He also said EMO has begun moving emergency equipment to highway camps and volunteer fire departments across the territory, to ensure it can be put to use quickly if needed.

Some communities have already requested sandbags, Blackjack said, but those aren’t being distributed yet because of logistics.

“Well first, you got to find the sand,” said Blackjack. “And then you got to find a place to fill it.”

He said in the coming weeks, the territorial government will be testing the alert ready system that allows EMO to get emergency info out to Yukoners instantly via a text message. 

Blackjack is also urging Yukoners to take their own steps to safeguard their properties, by clearing gutters, extending downspouts away from foundations, shoveling snow away house walls, and ensuring basement drains are clear.

In higher-risk zones, Blackjack suggests homeowners install sump pumps and water alarms, and elevate basement appliances on blocks. He also stressed the importance of reviewing insurance policies.

“Overland or groundwater flooding may be add-ons to a policy and may require an extra cost,” said Blackjack.