North Saskatchewan River continues to be dangerous, officials say

The city continues to warn residents to stay away from the high and fast-running North Saskatchewan River.

In the past 24 hours, water levels in the river have risen by more than three metres, and the flow is four times as fast as usual.

"The North Saskatchewan River remains dangerous due to increased flow rates and floating debris from rising river levels," Edmonton fire chief Ken Block said in a news release. "We ask Edmontonians to continue to stay off the river and away from the riverbanks until further notice.

The high water is a result of heavy rainfall in the mountains over the last few days. The water has now reached Edmonton carrying debris from upstream.

The water could easily erode riverbanks, which could cause them to collapse. To ensure the safety of residents, four low-lying paths have been closed. Two boat launches have also been closed.

The water has caused flooding in parts of central Alberta, including Westlock and low-lying areas of Lac Ste. Anne County.

Officials think the water will only rise by about one more metre, which means it won't get high enough to affect private properties in Edmonton.

They continue to monitor the situation.