Heavy rain warning: up to 100mm expected through Wednesday
Environment Canada upgrades alert as rainfall begins Saturday. Rivers already above safe levels; boating advisory in effect for Bow and Elbow.
Calgary is bracing for significant rainfall over the next five days, with Environment Canada upgrading its alert to a rainfall warning Sunday.
Total amounts between 50 and 100 millimetres are expected to continue until Wednesday morning, with some localized areas potentially exceeding 100mm. Water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas, creating hazardous conditions for drivers.
"Don't drive through flooded roadways. Watch for washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts," Environment Canada warned.
The rainfall, which began Saturday, is already raising river levels across the city. The Calgary Fire Department has issued a boating advisory for both the Bow and Elbow Rivers. The Bow River is already flowing faster than the recommended limit for boating, floating, or swimming, with the Elbow expected to rise further as rain arrives.
City officials say widespread overbank flooding is not anticipated, but localized flooding remains possible. High, fast-moving water can erode riverbanks, submerge pathways, and hide underwater hazards. A boating advisory triggers when the Bow River flow exceeds 280 cubic metres per second at the Elbow River confluence.
Premier Danielle Smith said Saturday her government is ready to help communities facing flood risk, noting the threat level isn't comparable to the devastating 2013 floods. The city expects some pathway closures in low-lying areas but is not under a flood watch or warning.
Calgarians should stay away from riverbanks and avoid water activities as conditions develop.