Water Security Agency issues warning about ice thickness

The Water Security Agency says the ice on Saskatchewan’s lakes and rivers isn’t thick enough yet to support many activities.

The agency says the warm fall has resulted in thin ice on many bodies of water, even with the recent snow and colder temperatures.

“Winter releases from Saskatchewan’s dams and reservoirs are minimal this year; however, thin ice can occur any time throughout the winter months depending on river flows and temperatures,” the agency said in a media release.

“The Water Security Agency urges extreme caution when on or crossing ice as there is a high risk of thin ice. Individuals should ensure that ice is safe for any wintertime activities that may be planned.”

The agency urged residents to avoid ice that looks slushy, has thawed and then frozen again, is near moving water, is layered because of sudden temperature changes, or has structures on it such as pressure ridges.

(Government of Saskatchewan/Submitted)