The Yukon flag waves outside the Yukon Legislature. Photo Courtesy of Macklen Linke/CKRW.
Whitehorse, YT – The Yukon government has issued an ice advisory for the Nordenskiold River as spring breakup begins near Carmacks.
Officials say open water is visible along much of the river, from above the Casino Way bridge to just below River Drive, and water levels have started to rise. Cooler daytime conditions and overnight freezing have slowed that increase, while ice near the mouth and along the Yukon River remains intact.
Warmer temperatures in the coming days are expected to increase snowmelt and get ice moving as early as Wednesday or Thursday, with overnight freezing continuing into the weekend.
The most critical period for ice jamming, which can lead to rapid flooding, is expected between April 25 and May 1.
Officials say river levels can change quickly during breakup and are urging residents to stay aware of conditions.
