Calgary residents are being cautioned about significant rainfall and potential flooding on the roads following a rainfall warning from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). The ECCC advisory, issued on Monday, predicts rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimetres in Calgary, with localized areas possibly experiencing over 100 millimetres of rain. The agency forecasts a decrease in rainfall intensity by Tuesday evening. Motorists are advised by ECCC to be vigilant for water accumulation on roadways and to avoid driving through flooded areas.
Hydrologist John Pomeroy from the University of Saskatchewan mentioned that although uncertainties remain regarding the upcoming rainfall, its intensity and impact locations, it is not expected to reach the levels witnessed during the 2013 Alberta flood. Pomeroy emphasized the current high flows in the Oldman River basin near the U.S. border and the Battle River basin between Calgary and Edmonton.
Pomeroy noted that the Bow River in Calgary is experiencing elevated flows, with rates around 400 cubic metres per second compared to the regular flow of 150 cubic metres per second. However, these rates are significantly lower than the 2013 flood peak, where the river saw flow rates of 1,500 to 1,600 cubic metres per second.
The Calgary Fire Department has issued a boating advisory for the Bow River, advising people to refrain from boating until river flow rates return to safer levels. Mayor Jeromy Farkas mentioned in a social media post on Monday that the city is actively monitoring the situation around the clock. Measures have been taken, including lowering the Glenmore Reservoir in southwest Calgary to accommodate increased Elbow River flows and addressing drainage concerns citywide.
Frank Frigo, the City of Calgary’s environmental management manager, highlighted the $1.3 billion invested by federal, provincial, and municipal governments in flood mitigation efforts, along with preparatory steps taken before the current rainfall event. Numerous closures are in effect in Banff National Park due to high water levels and flooding, impacting popular areas like the Fenland day-use area and surrounding trails, the Cave and Basin Trail, and the Bow River Trail in Lake Louise.
Alberta Parks has closed the Three Sisters Campground near Canmore due to flooding, with the Town of Canmore issuing a high stream-flow advisory for the Bow River and steep creeks. Residents are urged to stay away from embankments and exercise caution around areas affected by rising water levels.