St. Albert Issues Urgent Advisory as Sturgeon River Swells

Early Tuesday morning, the Sturgeon River began climbing faster than anyone expected. By mid‑day, the water was already well above the usual mark, prompting the City of St. Albert to sound the alarm.

Mayor Ken Wente, speaking at a brief press conference, asked everyone to stay away from the river’s edge. “We’re seeing levels that haven’t been this high in years,” he said, his tone both urgent and calm. “For your safety, please keep clear of the banks, avoid the trails that run alongside the water, and don’t try to drive through any flooded roadways.”

The river gauge at the Sturgeon River Bridge recorded a peak of 3.72 metres – roughly 1.6 metres above the typical summer level. That figure is the highest since the 2020 spring melt, according to Environment Canada’s hydrometric data. Because of the rise, the city has declared a Level 1 Flood Alert, the first such notice this season.

Local officials have already closed a stretch of the popular Sturgeon River Trail, from 105 St. Albert Trail to the downtown pedestrian bridge. The decision wasn’t taken lightly; the trail sees hundreds of joggers, cyclists and families each weekend. “It’s disappointing, but we can’t risk anyone slipping into fast‑moving water,” explained Parks & Recreation Director Maria Alvarez.

Residents are being reminded to keep pets on leashes and to avoid letting children play near the water’s edge. The city’s 24‑hour flood hotline (780‑492‑5555) is open for anyone who notices unusual flow or potential hazards. If you see a downed power line or a vehicle stuck in the water, call emergency services right away.

While the river is expected to recede gradually over the next 48‑72 hours, officials will continue to monitor conditions closely. They urge anyone with property near the river to review their flood‑readiness plans, move valuables to higher ground if possible, and stay tuned to local news for updates.