Overview of Recent Weather and Rainfall
Southern and central Alberta, including the Red Deer River basin where Dickson Dam is located, have recently experienced significant rainfall. Forecasts indicated the possibility of upwards of 100 mm of rain over the weekend in some areas, prompting advisories and warnings about rising river levels and potential localized flooding[1][2].
Impact on Dickson Dam and Gleniffer Reservoir
- High Streamflow Advisory: The province issued a high streamflow advisory for the Red Deer River upstream of Dickson Dam, as well as the Little Red Deer basin. While major flooding was not anticipated, authorities warned that river levels could rise rapidly by one to two metres due to the recent and forecasted rainfall[3][4].
- Reservoir and Outflow Status: As of the latest available reports, reservoir levels at Gleniffer Reservoir (created by Dickson Dam) were considered average for this time of year, with outflows from the dam slightly below average prior to the recent rains[5]. However, with the recent precipitation, it is expected that inflows to the reservoir have increased, and dam operators may adjust outflows accordingly to manage water levels and downstream river conditions[6].
- Red Deer River Response: In previous similar rain events, outflow rates from Dickson Dam were increased to accommodate rising inflows, resulting in the Red Deer River rising by up to one metre downstream, though typically without major flooding impacts to residential areas[6].
Flood Risk and Community Advisories
- Flood Watches: A flood watch was issued for the Little Red Deer River, with water levels expected to rise between 1.0 and 2.0 metres[4].
- No Major Flooding Expected: Despite the significant rainfall, most sources indicate that no major flooding is expected at this time, though rapid rises in water levels and localized issues (such as log jams) remain a concern[3][4].
- Public Safety: Residents and recreational users are being advised to stay clear of riverbanks and avoid water activities during periods of high flow, as conditions can change quickly and become hazardous[3][5].
Summary Table: Recent Conditions at Dickson Dam
Condition | Status (Late June 2025) |
Rainfall | Significant, up to 100 mm in some areas[1][2] |
Streamflow Advisory | High streamflow advisory in effect[3] |
Reservoir Level | Expected to be rising; previously average[5] |
Flooding | No major flooding expected, but localized rises and advisories in place[4][3] |
Dam Outflow | Likely to be increased to manage inflows[6] |
Conclusion
Recent rains have led to rising water levels at Dickson Dam and the Gleniffer Reservoir, prompting high streamflow advisories and localized flood watches in the region. While the dam is expected to fill up more quickly due to these rains, current reports suggest that reservoir levels are being managed and no widespread flooding is anticipated. Residents are urged to stay informed via local advisories and exercise caution near waterways during this period of elevated flow[4][3][5].
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- https://www.mdbighorn.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1086
- https://smrid.com/important-update-southern-alberta-expecting-heavy-precipitation/
- https://comtv.ca/news/2025/6/19/river-report-8-high-streamflow-advisory-issued-across-southern-alberta
- https://centralalbertaonline.com/articles/flood-watch-issued-for-little-red-deer-river
- https://www.reddeeradvocate.com/news/no-problems-on-red-deer-river-from-recent-rain-6827293
- https://www.reddeer.ca/whats-happening/news-room/news-archive/2022-news-archive/june-2022-news-archive/red-deer-river-levels-expected-to-rise.html
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