Alberta communities bracing for drought [Video]

LETHBRIDGE, ALTA. –

Many people in Lethbridge County and the city itself are bracing for a drought this summer, but many other communities across southern Alberta also have the same concerns.

Lower-than-average snowfall and a warm winter have many anticipating another summer of drought.

Downstream communities such as Medicine Hat are bracing for voluntary and potentially mandatory water restrictions.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

“We are looking at planning for potential drought in Medicine Hat. We’ve got a water shortage management plan,” said Adria Coombs, manager of environmental strategy and compliance for the City of Medicine Hat.

“We’ve identified some possible voluntary and mandatory restrictions through certain phases of the drought management plan.”

Medicine Hat has been in phase one of its water management plan since last year.

Phase one only includes voluntary water restrictions, but mandatory restrictions could be put in place …