Calgary warns residents to stay off rivers due to high flow rates

The City of Calgary has issued river safety advisories for the Bow and Elbow rivers following continuous rainfall and rising water levels.

The Calgary Fire Department is advising residents to avoid boating and all other water activities on both rivers.

Officials say flow rates have exceeded recommended safety levels for boating, floating and skimming, and are expected to remain high through Canada Day and potentially into the end of the week.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

As of Monday morning, Calgary had received nearly 40 millimetres of rain, with an additional five to 10 millimetres forecast by Tuesday.

A river usage advisory is issued when the Bow River flow rate exceeds 280 cubic metres per second and the Elbow River exceeds 50 cubic metres per second

The city says there is no risk of widespread overbank flooding, but localized flooding remains possible.

• Sign up for breaking news alerts from CTV News, right at your fingertips

Officials warn that cold water temperatures can make hazards difficult to see, while strong winds have increased the amount of debris in the rivers.

“While the school year has ended and everyone is excited for summer, the Calgary Fire Department advises everyone to stay off the Bow and Elbow rivers until safer conditions return and the advisory is lifted,” said Alex Kwan, public information officer with the department.

“We know that Calgarians love their rivers, and as we head into the Stampede, we welcome lots of visitors. When our waterways flow this high and fast, there’s significant risk, regardless of your watercraft or skill level,” he added.

• Check the latest forecast and more on the CTV News Calgary weather page

The city’s fire and aquatics teams say they are continuing to monitor conditions and will notify residents when the advisory is lifted.

Residents living near the rivers are being asked to stay alert and keep a safe distance from fast-moving water.