Stranded Kananaskis campers able to leave after flooding
Alberta crews finish evacuating 50+ people sheltering in place as roads reopen and state of emergency remains in effect.
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Crews have finished evacuating remaining campers stranded in Kananaskis Country after heavy rainfall closed more than 100 kilometres of roads through provincial parks along Alberta's Rocky Mountains.
Alberta Parks Minister Todd Loewen said roughly 50 people had been sheltering in place in the area, which remains under a local state of emergency. All residents and visitors can now leave safely, he said Tuesday.
Roads had been closed since the weekend due to landslides and flooding. A flood warning remains in effect for the Elbow River, which flows from Kananaskis Country east into Calgary.
The area took a pounding last weekend as communities across Alberta were hammered by rain. Edmonton recorded its rainiest June on record following the downpour. Canmore rescinded its local state of emergency but is keeping a high stream-flow advisory in place, warning residents to stay away from embankments.
"Work continues to ensure Kananaskis remains a safe place to visit and recreate for Albertans and our visitors," Loewen said. "There are also some individuals and groups who have chosen to stay, and continue with their plans to enjoy Alberta's K-Country."
