Government of Yukon shares early flood outlook and reminders to prepare for spring snowmelt

Press Release

March 23, 2026

Government of Yukon officials recently held a briefing to share the early-season flood outlook and what to expect heading into spring. Officials also shared reminders about how to prepare in advance for the spring melt and emphasized the importance of emergency preparedness.

Weather patterns will play a critical role in shaping flood conditions this spring. March and April are expected to be colder than normal, with more precipitation than normal.

The communities of Teslin, Carmacks, Upper Liard and the Klondike Valley are at an elevated risk for flooding this spring due to snowpack. While snowpack is also above normal for the Southern Lakes, that region’s flood potential depends on the timing of snowmelt, summer precipitation and glacial melt.

The Emergency Measures Organization is working with First Nations, municipal governments and emergency responders in higher-risk regions. This work includes updating plans for flood preparedness, emergency response and information sharing. Response materials, such as sandbags and sandbagging machines, will be pre-positioned as needed.

After a winter of heavy snowfall in some parts of the Yukon, homeowners are advised to prepare their properties for the spring melt. Simple steps include: clearing snow away from the foundation of a building; clearing eavestroughs, downspouts and drains; extending downspouts further away from the house; and ensuring that basement drains, sump pumps and water alarms are in good working order. Other important steps include elevating appliances, documents and valuables off the floor, and checking if home insurance covers flooding.

Throughout the spring and summer, the government will share information about water levels and flood forecasting on the Flood Hub. Yukoners can find information related to all emergencies, including links to the Flood Hub, through yukon.ca/emergencies.

The government is committed to keeping our communities safe as we head into a spring shaped by higher-than-average snowpack. Our officials will continue to work closely with municipal, First Nations and community partners to ensure we are prepared and coordinated in the months ahead. I encourage Yukoners to take time now to prepare their homes and properties for the spring melt. By working together and staying informed, we can reduce risks and support one another through the season.

Minister of Community Services Cory Bellmore

Quick facts

• The communities of Teslin, Carmacks, Upper Liard and the Klondike Valley are at an elevated flood risk this spring due to snowpack.
• Yukoners can prepare for emergencies by creating an emergency plan for their family or household, making an emergency kit with supplies for 72 hours and preparing for hazards specific to their location.
• A full Spring Flood Risk Assessment for the territory will be released in mid-April with a media briefing by forecasters.

Media contact

Tim Kucharuk
Press secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
tim.kucharuk@yukon.ca

Julia Duchesne
Communications, Community Services
867-332-4188
julia.duchesne@yukon.ca

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