A high streamflow advisory was issued for the Klondike River in the Dawson City area Monday, but that doesn’t mean spring flooding is necessarily anticipated.

Larger ice movements on the Klondike River are likely to begin mid-week, the Yukon government said Monday afternoon.

Breakup is predicted to occur in the next three to eight days.

Breakup on the Yukon River typically occurs after the Klondike, and is currently predicted to occur slightly earlier than the 20-year rolling average of May 3.

Most rivers are now responding to snowmelt, but overnight freezing has kept the response moderated.

“Generally, the response is several days to a week earlier than average,” the government said.

“Minor ice movements are starting to show in the water level records on the Klondike River, but remain small.

“The ice cover on most rivers remains largely intact, though darkening is visible in many locations and openings are growing. The lower Nordenskiold River is mostly open.”

Daily maximum temperatures are forecast to continue to be above normal this week before cooling to below seasonal this weekend.

In Old Crow, temperatures will be closer to seasonal this week.

Runoff will continue rising in response to snowmelt and the rate of rise is likely to increase as overnight freezes become shorter in duration.

“We are grateful to receive ice and water level observations from the public and other agencies,” the government said.

Photos and observations can be sent to waterlevels@yukon.ca.

“Stay clear of rivers and riverbanks when ice is breaking up or when water is running fast and high,” the government advised.

“Riverbanks may be unstable at these times. During flooding, beware of road washouts. Do not drive a vehicle into flooded areas.”

If you live near water, or in a flood-prone area, the government added, you should have a plan to deal with flooding on your property.

To learn about preparing for floods, visit https://www.PreparedYukon.ca