The Dawson Emergency Control Group, a partnership between the City of Dawson, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, and the Government of Yukon, has issued an Ice Advisory for the Klondike River as of April 28, 2026. This advisory signals that the annual river ice breakup is underway, meaning ice is melting and shifting, which can cause river levels to change rapidly.
Residents are being urged to exercise caution and stay off the ice and away from riverbanks while these conditions persist. The advisory warns that the movement of large ice pieces may lead to isolated flooding in low-lying areas. As the situation develops, the advisory could be upgraded to a Flood Watch or a Flood Warning if conditions warrant.
To help residents protect their properties, sand and sandbags have been made available at the Mammoth Statue on Front Street, across from the Commissioner’s Residence. Those living in areas historically prone to flooding, such as the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Farm, the C4 subdivision, the Dredge Pond subdivision, Rock Creek, and Henderson Corner, are encouraged to take proactive steps to prepare for potential high water.
The Emergency Control Group coordinates monitoring and response efforts throughout the breakup season and plans to provide the next update on the situation by Friday, May 1, 2026, or sooner if conditions change significantly.
