Calgary Faces Imminent Water Crisis as Major Water Main Break Threatens Supply

The City of Calgary is on the brink of a water crisis as officials warn of a looming shortage due to a significant water main break that has crippled the city’s supply.

Nancy Mackay, who serves as the director of Water Services in Calgary, disclosed that the water levels in the city remain critical, emphasizing that without immediate action, Calgary could run out of water in the coming days.

Jyoti Gondek, the current Mayor of Calgary, highlighted the severity of the situation following the rupture of the large feeder water main near the western edge of the city on Wednesday night.

The impacted water main, known as Bearspaw, spans 11 kilometers and suffered a break that caused havoc in the Montgomery area. The break led to sudden flooding on several streets, including the closure of 16th Avenue which is part of the Trans-Canada Highway.

In response to the crisis, the city has implemented Stage 4 water restrictions, urging all residents to conserve water and adhere to a mandatory outdoor watering ban.

An Alberta Emergency Alert was issued, prompting residents in the community of Bowness to adhere to a boil-water advisory. This advisory necessitates boiling water for at least one minute before consumption across all households and businesses in the area.

Calgary Stampeders season opener and other events are proceeding as scheduled while officials evaluate the potential strain on the water supply, with the football game not seen as a major water consumption event at this time.

Sue Henry, the Chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, mentioned that bylaw officers have responded to over 170 calls relating to water use violations, emphasizing the city’s commitment to first educate before resorting to punitive measures.

Ward 1 Councilor Sonya Sharp voiced the shock felt by residents in Bowness due to the ongoing water issues, explaining how the community has rallied together once again to support each other during this challenging period.

The closures on the Trans-Canada Highway between Sarcee Trail and Home Road N.W. are set to last until Monday morning as repair efforts continue relentlessly in Calgary.