Water levels in the Great Slave Lake are well below average and the Great Bear Lake remains at its lowest water level recorded for this time of year, according to the latest report by Environment and Climate Change researchers.
Data collected in September shows that water levels for major rivers in the N.W.T., including the Mackenzie River are low in comparison to historic records.
“The Mackenzie River water level, recorded at several stations along the river, is well below average for this time of year,” said researchers.
The Hay River and the Liard River also showed water levels “well below average.”
Scientists noted that the low water levels are an effect of extreme drought conditions that began in the summer of 2022.
“Low water levels are the result of extreme drought conditions that began in the summer of 2022 and have persisted through 2023, 2024 and 2025,” said researchers with GNWT’s centre for Environment and Climate Change.
While water levels and flow rates showed decreased levels compared to average rates for the territory, there were some exceptions including the South Nahanni River and the Peel river at Fort McPherson, which showed average levels for this time of year.
Scientist have also noted that there have been limited signs of improvement.
“Water levels have since shown some recovery, but this has mostly been limited to small rivers and lakes,” said researchers.
This is backed by data gathered from minor rivers including the Lockhart River and Hoarfrost River, which showed above average levels for the month of September. Other minor rivers like the Snare and the Talston River, showed average levels.
Data shows temperatures were “well above average” and precipitation was “mostly well below average” last month with the exception of Norman Wells and Inuvik, where above average rainfall was reported.
Data shows that precipitation in the Mackenzie River has been “well below average” since March.
Scientists pointed out that the water levels on Great Slave Lake and the Mackenzie River are also influenced by rainfall received by provinces bordering southern N.W.T.
“Average precipitation has not been enough to overcome the extreme drought and soil moisture deficit. Several months of above average precipitation is needed to raise water levels,” said researchers.
