Springbank Reservoir activated for first time as heavy rain tests flood defenses

Alberta's nearly billion-dollar flood mitigation system swung into action Monday morning when heavy overnight rainfall triggered the activation of the Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir for the first time since it became operational in 2025.

Rainfall in the Upper Elbow watershed came in higher than forecast, with about 120 to 130 millimetres falling in some areas. The province issued a Flood Warning for the Elbow River in response. But the good news: no significant overbank river flooding is expected in Calgary at this time.

The Springbank Reservoir, built approximately 15 kilometres west of Calgary, diverts and temporarily stores water to protect the city. The activation marks a critical test of infrastructure designed to prevent a repeat of the devastating 2013 floods.

Meanwhile, Kananaskis Country declared a state of local emergency Monday, June 29. Heavy precipitation that began Sunday continued through the day, contributing to a mudslide that closed Highway 40 between the Kananaskis Golf Course and Highway 940. The province also reported bridge washouts in the area. Residents were asked to avoid non-essential travel, and emergency teams coordinated response efforts through the activated Kananaskis Region Emergency Co-ordination Centre. William Watson Lodge opened as temporary shelter for those needing a safe place to stay.

Canmore also declared a state of local emergency with evacuation alerts for parts of the mountain town, including the Palliser area and Stone Creek Road. In a 6 a.m. update Monday, the town said it had made it past the worst of the rainfall, though evacuation alerts remained in effect and crews continued monitoring waterflow. The province urged people to stay away from all steep creeks and respect closures.