Residents across the Lakeland are being urged to prepare for another round of significant rainfall this weekend, with Environment Canada issuing a Special Weather Statement covering much of northeastern Alberta.

The statement warns that widespread rainfall totals of 30 to 60 mm are possible from Friday evening through Sunday, with the potential for even higher amounts in localized areas.

The concern comes after an already wet June and heavy rainfall last weekend that left many areas saturated.

Environment Canada says additional rainfall could increase the risk of:

• Overland flooding
• Water pooling on roads
• Washouts
• Localized infrastructure impacts
• Difficult travel conditions

Forecasters note there is still uncertainty about exactly where the heaviest rain will fall. Current models suggest the rain could develop in a relatively narrow band, meaning some communities could see significantly more rain than others.

Lakeland Areas Included

The Special Weather Statement includes:

• Bonnyville
• Cold Lake
• Ardmore
• Glendon
• Moose Lake
• La Corey
• Wolf Lake
• Beaverdam
• Elk Point
• St. Paul
• Ashmont
• St. Lina
• Frog Lake
• Lindbergh
• Two Hills
• Myrnam
• Derwent
• Lac La Biche
• Plamondon
• Hylo
• Lakeland Provincial Park
• Fork Lake
• Heart Lake
• Smoky Lake
• Vilna
• Waskatenau
• Kikino

More Rain Could Follow

Environment Canada is also tracking another weather system that could move through Sunday night and into early next week, potentially bringing additional heavy rainfall to already vulnerable areas.

Rainfall warnings are expected to be issued closer to the weekend if confidence in the forecast continues to increase.

Time to Prepare

With many fields, ditches and low-lying areas already holding water, residents are encouraged to clear drainage areas, secure property and monitor local conditions over the next several days.

Environment Canada says now is the time to assess flood risks and prepare for the possibility of another significant rain event across the region.

Lakeland Connect will continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates as more information becomes available.