By Jamie Rieger

Cypress snowmelt advisory
People living in low-lying areas near streams or other waterways in southeast Alberta should keep a watchful eye on rising waters as the temperatures rise and snowmelt from the Cypress Hills accelerates.
Late last week, Alberta Environment issued a snowmelt advisory for the Cypress Hills area and areas in southeast Alberta that include tributaries flowing out of the hills. Last Friday, the accumulated snow at Cypress Hills was 95 cm. On May 3, it was just 10 cm. With temperatures being forecast for the area, Alberta Environment is closely monitoring the streams and waterways in southeast Alberta.
"We are keeping a closer eye on the tributaries for the possibility of overland flooding," said Carrie Sancartier, spokesperson for Alberta Environment.
"People living in low-lying areas should be keeping a close eye on them, too," she added.
Currently, stream water levels are above normal for this time of year and the amount of snow sitting in the Cypress Hills that is expected to melt with the rising temperatures, could push water levels over the brim of the streams.
A snowmelt advisory is issued when significant runoff is expected and localized overland flooding is possible. Alberta Environment is not anticipating any major flooding at this time. The advisory will be updated if the situation changes and will remain in effect until Wednesday.