Edmonton's wettest summer on record hits 500+ millimetres as July nears its end

Edmonton has officially recorded its wettest summer on record, with over 503.7 millimetres of rain falling since June 1 — far exceeding the previous seasonal record of 417.1 millimetres set in 1953.

June alone brought 271 millimetres, shattering a 112-year-old record. So far in July, the city has received 264.7 millimetres. The all-time July record is 282.7 millimetres in 1901 — within reach as the month winds down.

Environment Canada meteorologist Jennifer Kowal said the pattern will likely continue. "The increased temperature this summer and the water on the ground is going to just continue this pattern, at least for the foreseeable future," she said.

The saturated soil cannot absorb any more water, causing excess moisture to run off and pool in low-lying areas. Normally, Edmonton's drier climate allows moisture to be quickly absorbed. That ecosystem shock has damaged the city's forest canopy, with heavy winds toppling trees across neighbourhoods. The city signed a mutual aid agreement with Calgary to share forestry crews and equipment.

Edmonton has over 12.8 million trees, but only 380,000 line boulevards and open park spaces. The concentrated damage in these visible areas is acute.

Several roads remain closed due to flooding and debris: the southbound portion of Connors Road; a westbound lane on Groat Road at 107 Avenue. The westbound off-ramp for Whitemud Drive at 122 Street and 104 Street has reopened. Edmonton Transit is detouring routes 500X, 511, and 701.

EPCOR aims to clear blocked storm drains within 24 hours of being reported. Residents can remove debris themselves if safe, or call EPCOR at 780-412-4500. The city advised against driving on gravel roads, where concentrated water creates soft spots that heavy equipment can damage further.