Drought

Current conditions

Updated September 25, 2025

As we head into fall, Calgary has a stable water supply to carry us through the winter.

What we’re seeing

Bow watershed reservoir storage upstream of Calgary is below normal for this time of year. Glenmore Reservoir storage is normal.
Bow River flows in Calgary are below normal and and Elbow River flows in Calgary remain within the normal range for this time of year.

A Year in Review – Water Supply in the Bow and Elbow Rivers

The Calgary region along with southern Alberta started the year with extremely dry conditions, caused by a low snowpack that melted off quickly in the spring. Significant rainfall throughout July and early August in large portions of our watersheds and lower seasonal temperatures really improved river flows, Glenmore reservoir levels and soil moisture.

Although late August through September brought extended periods of heat and very little rain, Calgarians continued to use water wisely throughout the late summer.

We’re seeing sufficient water supply conditions heading into late fall and winter. We will continue to monitor conditions in the Bow and Elbow Basins over the winter, keeping a close eye on mountain snowpack as it develops. Our next update will be provided in March 2026.

Track Calgary’s daily water demand

Learn more about outdoor water restrictions

Top tips for saving water outdoors

Reduce how often and how long you water outdoors

You can achieve this by cutting your watering time by 5-10 minutes less per session.

Skip a watering day

Healthy lawns only need about one inch of water per week to stay healthy. This includes rain too, so use a small container to track how much water your lawn is getting.

Water during cooler hours

Water your lawn and garden in the late evening or early morning to reduce evaporation.

Keep your grass three inches long

Longer grass keeps roots cool helping your lawn handle dry conditions.

Use a rain barrel

Rain barrels are a great way to capture and reuse rainwater in your yard.

Get a rain barrel rebate

More ways to save water

In your yard

During spring and summer, your water use can jump by 30 to 40 per cent because of outdoor watering activities. Prepare your yard for dry conditions and make it as water efficient as possible.

Learn about drought-tolerant native plants Get a rain barrel

At home

In Calgary, the average person uses about seven cubic metres (m3) or 7,000 litres of water per month.

Find out the biggest water users inside your home and get tips and actions to take to achieve significant water savings in your bathroom, kitchen and laundry area.

Saving water in your home

At work

Practicing water efficiency makes good business sense. It helps lower operating costs, saves energy and demonstrates responsible water use.

There are many ways businesses can conserve water. Learn how to lower your water use with sector specific tips, guides and resources.

Water efficiency for businesses Learn how to become a water managed site

More information

Alberta River Basins

An interactive map showing precipitation and river flows, water supply outlook and drought advisories.
Government of Alberta

Information about drought conditions across the province and actions undertaken by Alberta's government.