WHITEHORSE — Yukon's snow survey shows record-high snowpacks in many of the basins the territory monitors, creating a high potential for spring flooding.

The Snow Survey Bulletin released Monday shows eight of 11 basins have the highest recorded May 1 snowpack, while the remaining three basins have snow levels that are well above average.

The bulletin says there was historically high snowfall over the winter and a colder-than-average April has delayed the snowmelt. 

It says record-setting snowpack creates a high potential for spring flooding in communities, although the weather this month and in June will influence the timing and severity of peak water flows.

The Yukon government says it is working with communities that may be impacted to prepare them for possible flooding.

The territory conducts snow surveys every March, April and May to help forecast water levels and flow conditions across Yukon.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 9, 2022.

The Canadian Press