On this day in 1955, the arrival of spring in Saskatoon brought more than just warmer temperatures—it unleashed significant flooding across the city due to rapid snowmelt. Historical records from the Saskatoon StarPhoenix archives reveal that several key areas were impacted, including Griffiths Stadium on the University of Saskatchewan campus and the playground at the School for the Deaf.
Flooding Across Key Locations
The flooding, captured in a photograph from April 9, 1955, and curated by the City of Saskatoon Archives, shows water inundating Griffiths Stadium. This image serves as a vivid reminder of how seasonal transitions can disrupt urban infrastructure. The School for the Deaf playground was also affected, highlighting the widespread nature of the event.
River and Highway Disruptions
Beyond the city center, the spring thaw caused notable changes along the South Saskatchewan River. According to reports from the time, ice had moved out at Saskatchewan Landing by Thursday night, with water levels rising approximately one foot during the break-up. Fortunately, no ice jams were reported, and officials anticipated no major difficulties.
At the Saskatoon pumping station, the river level was recorded at 1,537.9 feet at noon, about 1.7 feet above the normal winter level. This increase contributed to transportation challenges, as highway flooding plagued the Department of Highways. Multiple washouts were reported, with conditions described as worse than in some previous years.
Transportation Impacts and Advisories
Officials attributed the severe flooding to a lack of absorption power in the ground, resulting from a wet fall that preceded the spring runoff. Specific highways faced significant issues:
- Highway No. 11 was flooded in three sections between the airport and the Thirteen Mile corner, though water had stopped flowing over the road by noon.
- Motorists were advised to avoid No. 27 Highway due to water over the grade at multiple points from Hopkins Corner to the Junction with No. 2.
- Clavet to Dafoe remained in poor shape, and No. 20 Highway south of Humboldt was washed out in one spot on Friday night.
Despite these challenges, some areas, like Highway No. 11, saw improvements by midday, with water on the road deemed nothing to worry about. The new No. 5 Highway was recommended as an alternative route for eastbound travelers.
Historical Context and Archives
This event is part of the Throwback Thursday series by the Saskatoon StarPhoenix, which revisits photos from the city's past to preserve and share local history. The flooding of 1955 serves as a case study in how seasonal weather patterns have long impacted Saskatoon's infrastructure and daily life.
As spring continues to bring melting snow each year, this historical account reminds residents of the enduring challenges posed by natural cycles. The archives invite suggestions for future historical moments to explore, emphasizing the importance of documenting and learning from the past.
