Alert | State of Local Emergency in Effect

City declares State of Local Emergency. Water restrictions and Fire ban in place. Our water is safe to drink.

Water Saving Tips, FAQs, more information

Critical water main break - June 2024

Updated June 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m.

A State of Local Emergency is in effect.

On June 5, there was a catastrophic break in the feeder main that moves most of the water from the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant through the city. Since then, we have detected five additional hot spots on the feeder main in need of urgent repair.

While repair work is underway, Calgary, Strathmore, Airdrie, Chestermere and the Tsuut’ina Nation are relying on the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant for almost all of their water needs.

To make sure we have enough water for essential needs, we’re asking Calgarians, businesses and neighbours to continue to reduce their water use by 25%. Together, we can make every drop count!

Tune in for live daily video updates at 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Daily water usage June 28, 2024

Feeder main repair milestones

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Restoring water service

Currently on stage 1: Fill the feeder main. Pressurize the pipe and fill with water.

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We are preparing to fill the watermain with 14 million litres of water. This work is expected to begin mid-week and take one to two days.  

Step 1: Fill the feeder main (1-2 days). 14 million litres of water will fill the feeder main. The increase in pressure could result in further breaks. We will be using acoustic monitors to listen for more wire breaks.

Step 2: Flushing the pipe (1 day). Treated water is needed to clean the feeder main. The water will exit through values and fire hydrants and be decholorinted before entering the river. This will happen at the north side of Edworthy Park. Closures will be in place.

Step 3: Testing the water (1 day). Water samples will be sent to a lab for analysis to make it's safe for the public. Results will be reviewed by Alberta Health Services and Environment and Protected Areas. 

Step 4: Stabilize the system (3-5 days): Pumps at Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant will be turned on and water will start flowing through the network.

To restore service to the feeder main and stabilize the system, we need to move carefully. Each step has risks and could create setbacks. 

Fire ban in effect

To help prevent any unnecessary fires, we have implemented a city-wide fire ban, effective immediately. The fire ban includes all City parks.

Learn more about the fire ban

Service interruptions

Some City services are affected by the water main break.

Learn more about interrupted services

Traffic impacts

The following closures will be in effect until the completion of the feeder main repairs:

  • 2 lanes are closed on westbound 16 Avenue N.W. at 43 Street N.W. There is a two way traffic setup in place.
  • 1 inside lane is closed on westbound 16 Avenue N.W. at 44 Street N.W.
  • 16 Avenue N.W. from the Bowness Road exit to 43 Street N.W. has bumps on the roadway and uneven road surface. Please be cautious.

16 Avenue N.W. is open to traffic in both directions. Please expect delays. 

To see up-to-date traffic incidents, cameras or construction please visit calgary.ca/trafficinfo

A state of local emergency is in effect

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