06/02/2026
Conditions for June 2: Rivers expected to peak today; no widespread flooding expected in Calgary
Current outlook:
A cold wet front has brought an average of 90 mm of rain across the Bow and Elbow River catchments since Saturday evening. Some of this fell as snow at the highest elevations in the mountains. The highest recorded rainfall was in the Jumpingpoud Creek catchment (flows to the Bow River upstream of Calgary), at 160mm so far.
In Calgary, 70-110mm of rain has fallen since Saturday.
Rain is expected to tail off today, bringing another 10-15mm.
Rivers and creeks are expected to continue to rise, expected to peak Tuesday afternoon. Calgarians should be extra cautious near fast-moving rivers and creeks.
Low-lying areas and pathways may see localized flooding, but no widespread flooding is expected. As foreceast going into this event, flood response actions such as road or bridge closures, flood barriers, operation of the Springbank Reservoir (SR1) or evacuations have not been required.
As rainfall in Calgary continues, water may pool in streets and around catch basins.
A City of Calgary Boating Advisory has been issued (check calgary.ca/watersafety before going on the river).
A Provincial High Streamflow Advisory has been issued for several basins surrounding Calgary, and may be issued for the Bow and Elbow Rivers in Calgary.
How we're responding:
Some pathway closures due to increased flows expected over the next few days.
A Boating Advisory is in place (www.calgary.ca/watersafety).
We have lowered Glenmore Reservoir to make room for high Elbow River flows.
We are communicating regularly with Environment and Climate Change Canada, Alberta River Forecast Centre, and TransAlta to share the best available information.
Crews, equipment and materials are ready in case we need to respond.
We’re continuing to monitor rainfall and river conditions 24/7.
In preparation for flood season each year, The City completes exercises and testing of infrastructure like river outfalls, lift stations and temporary barrier deployments.
City stormwater crews are monitoring and responding to drainage concerns.
We are prepared to communicate as needed through the event, should conditions change and additional actions be required.
What you can do:
Stay safe near rivers. When the rivers and creeks rise in Calgary, stay away from the banks, including children and pets, as high flows can cause bank erosion and instability. Before going out on the river (rafting, fishing, kayaking), check calgary.ca/watersafety. If there is a boating advisory, stay off the river for your safety.
Direct rainwater away from your home. Eavestroughs and extensions should drain at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) away from your and your neighbour's home and onto a landscaped area so the water can soak into the ground.
Ensure your basement is flood resilient. When river levels are high, and/or when it rains heavily, water can enter basements. Check your sump pump and backflow valve if you have them, to make sure they are in good working order. Consider moving valuable or sentimental items to higher levels. Consider installing a water alarm to for an early alert about any water entering your basement. Check your insurance policy to see if you’re covered for groundwater basement flooding.
Help us keep an eye on storm drains. During intense rainfalls, storm drains can be temporarily overwhelmed and it may take some time for water to drain. In some areas of the city, we’ve installed a device in the storm drains to manage how fast water flows into the pipes from the storm drain that helps prevent the system from becoming overwhelmed with stormwater, avoiding water backups into basements or flooding into houses, garages and businesses.
If you see water pooling around storm drains and it hasn’t drained within 90 mins, take a photo and submit it via the 311 app or online request. This will help City crews respond on a priority basis. If safety is a concern or water is entering a building, contact 311 immediately.
High river flow season is May 15 - July 15
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