Calgarians warned to stay away from rivers, as water levels rise

CALGARY- With all eyes on the rising rivers, the fire department has issued a warning for people to stay away from the banks.

Recent rain combined with the melting snow pack has increased levels in both the Elbow and Bow. The city puts out high stream flow advisories whenever flows exceed 280 cubic metres per second—and they currently sit at 300.

However, to put that in perspective, water was flowing at 1700 cubic metres per second at the height of the flood. Still debris and bank erosion can create hazards.

“We are encouraging Calgarians to know the hazards, know the risks,” says Batt. Chief Allan Ball. “We try to mitigate these risks by putting these advisories on, and we just ask Calgarians to pay heed to what we’re doing.”

Flood prevention work is now in full swing, including shoring up river banks and erecting walls.