Edmonton breaks 112-year rainfall record
June total now exceeds 240 mm, shattering the 1914 mark. More rain expected through Monday.
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Edmonton has shattered its June rainfall record, with Saturday's downpour of more than 36 millimetres bringing the month's total to roughly 240 mm — far exceeding the previous record of 216.5 mm set in 1914.
Sunday's rain tally was still being calculated by Environment Canada, but the city remains under an orange severe weather alert. The weekend could bring between 40 mm and 70 mm of rain to Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert, with the warning cautioning that "significant damage, disruption, or health impacts" are possible.
The city is now poised to crack the single-month rainfall record set in July 1901, when 282 mm fell. Additional rain forecast through Monday could push Edmonton over that threshold before the month ends.
The deluge has already caused widespread disruption. Gateway Boulevard at 51 Avenue saw lane reductions due to flooding, with closures potentially affecting the Monday commute. Part of Yellowhead Trail was shut down Saturday for several hours due to flooding. High stream flow advisories remain in effect across the region, with trails prone to erosion closed to the public. On Thursday, the City of Edmonton shut down the east sidewalk of the High Level Bridge due to slope instability near the southeast side.
With the ground already saturated from weekend storms and June rainfall well above normal, Environment Canada warns that additional rain is likely to cause overland flooding, washouts, and impacts to infrastructure and property. Epcor is encouraging residents to limit water use to avoid overwhelming the drainage system and reminds citizens to stay away from storm water ponds and avoid driving through flooded roads. Those witnessing drainage issues can call 780-412-4500 to report them.
