River levels stay high across Calgary; no overland flooding expected

More than 100 millimetres of rain fell in the Bow and Elbow catchments, sending river flows to elevated levels across Calgary and surrounding areas. While the rivers will remain high for several days, the City said Monday, June 29, that it does not expect overland flooding.

Calgary's Emergency Operations Centre was activated to coordinate flood response. "Calgarians can expect to see localized areas of flooding next to rivers and creeks, closed pathways, and potential for basement seepage in some low-lying areas along the Bow River," the City stated. A flood warning remains in place for the Elbow River upstream of Calgary.

Early Monday, the Alberta government began diverting flow from the Elbow River into the Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir, marking the first time the flood mitigation tool has been used since its 2025 completion. The City is also positioning Glenmore and Ghost Reservoir levels to store river water and reduce flows through Calgary.

The Calgary Fire Department issued a river safety advisory for both the Bow and Elbow Rivers, advising against boating and water activities. Bow River flow rates were measured at 433 cubic metres per second as of 6:05 p.m. on June 29—well above the 280 cubic metres per second threshold for a safety advisory. "When our waterways flow this high and fast, there's significant risk, regardless of your watercraft or skill level," said Alex Kwan, the fire department's public information officer. Water levels are expected to remain high through Canada Day and late into the week.