Search continues for missing jet skier as Saskatoon warns river is still dangerous

(Carla Shynkaruk / CTV News)

The City of Saskatoon is continuing to urge residents and visitors to stay off the South Saskatchewan River, warning that conditions remain hazardous despite a recent decrease in water flow.

In a public advisory issued Monday, city officials said high-water conditions have compromised important safety measures near the weir and that river flows remain significantly higher than normal.

One of the most visible impacts is damage to the river boom, a line of warning buoys normally installed downstream of the University Bridge to alert boaters and paddlers to the weir ahead.

The boom was damaged during the recent high-flow event and is no longer stretched across the river. Instead, the buoys have been pushed along the shoreline.

City crews say they are working to safely reinstall the boom as soon as river conditions allow.

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According to the Water Security Agency, typical river flows in Saskatoon are about 160 cubic metres per second. Current flows are approximately 280 cubic metres per second, though officials expect levels to return to normal by the end of the week.

The warning comes as Saskatoon Fire Department crews continue searching for the body of a jet skier believed to have gone over the weir Saturday evening.

Family members of 32-year-old Adan Vargas Salvador, a Mexican national, have turned to social media seeking information and answers, asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant details to come forward.

The city says the advisory will remain in effect as officials continue monitoring river conditions, which are still considered dangerous.