City of Calgary declares flooding emergency

Heavy rain leads to flood warnings in Southern Alberta; updates here.

by SG Staff

CALGARY, June 20, 2013 — The City of Calgary activated its Municipal Emergency Plan at 8 am this morning, warning the public to watch out for flash floods — gullywashers. According to the City's news release:

"This decision was undertaken due to the anticipated heavy rains and flows on the Elbow and Bow Rivers throughout the day and into tomorrow which may have an impact on the city of Calgary. 

• Stay away from rivers and creeks as the water is rising and moving quickly, and banks may be unstable.

• Avoid storm water ponds and storm drains, and do not let children play near them.

• Do not drive through flooded areas such as underpasses.

• If you experience basement seepage or overland flooding, call 3-1-1 to report.

• If you or someone else is in imminent danger, call 9-1-1. Remember that 9-1-1 is for emergencies only; please use 3-1-1 for reporting non-emergency issues.

• Monitor local media and City of Calgary messages…."

Since then, the City of Calgary and the province of Alberta have ordered several evacuation orders for inner city areas such as Elbow Park, and outer areas such as Bragg Creek.  Canmore and Lethbridge are in states of emergency. CBC reports that the sour gas leak in the town of Turner Valley has now been contained. 

Pam Banting supplied Facebook video of flooding at Bragg Creek this afternoon

The City of Calgary provides frequent updates here. 

Accuweather: Extreme flood situation in Southwestern Alberta

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