Saskatchewan Runoff Outlook Updated: Above-Normal Conditions Expected in Central Regions
The Water Security Agency (WSA) has released its latest spring runoff update for 2026, indicating that most of Saskatchewan is expected to see near to below normal runoff, with some notable regional exceptions.
Central Saskatchewan Sees Higher Runoff Potential
Recent monitoring and snow surveys conducted on April 9 and 10 across 12 locations show that snowpack increased in parts of central Saskatchewan since early March.
As a result:
- Above normal runoff is expected across much of central Saskatchewan
- Well above normal runoff is forecast for east-central areas, including regions around Hudson Bay, and north of Yorkton and Wynyard
The Quill Lakes Basin is also expected to experience above normal runoff due to higher-than-average snowpack.
Conditions Vary Across the Province
The runoff picture varies significantly depending on location:
-
Southern Saskatchewan:
Snowmelt is largely complete, especially in the southern portion of the Qu'Appelle River Basin. -
Central and Northern Saskatchewan:
Snow cover remains more persistent, with well-above-normal snowpack still present in areas north of Yorkton, Melfort, Meadow Lake, and Prince Albert. -
Qu'Appelle River Basin:
Snowmelt has slowed in northern sections due to colder temperatures.
All lakes in the basin are expected to remain within normal operating ranges. -
Churchill River Basin:
Runoff is expected to range from below normal to above normal, depending on the area.
Reservoir Levels and Lake Diefenbaker
Most major reservoirs in southern Saskatchewan are currently at or above normal levels for this time of year.
- Below normal: McDougald Reservoir, Harris Reservoir
- Normal to above: Most others across the region
Lake Diefenbaker is currently above median levels but remains within its normal operating range. The WSA continues to actively manage flows.
Mountain Snowpack a Key Factor
Snowpack in the Rocky Mountains remains well above normal, which will play a major role in water levels later this spring and early summer.
If conditions continue:
- Above normal inflows into Lake Diefenbaker are expected
- Peak flows will be driven by mountain melt combined with rainfall in May and June
Souris Basin and Seasonal Outlook
In the Souris River Basin, reservoirs are expected to remain within normal ranges.
Looking ahead:
- Normal precipitation is forecast from May through July
- Warmer-than-normal temperatures are expected across southern Saskatchewan
Ongoing Monitoring
The Water Security Agency says it will continue to closely monitor snowpack, runoff, and reservoir levels across the province to respond to changing conditions as needed.
