CALGARY — Southern Alberta is facing its worst flooding disaster in decades as torrential rains have caused the Bow and Elbow rivers to surge far beyond their banks, forcing mass evacuations and prompting officials to declare a state of emergency.
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi announced the state of emergency early Friday morning as water levels continued to rise throughout the city's downtown core and surrounding communities.
"We are dealing with a situation that is unprecedented in our city's history," Nenshi said during a morning press conference. "The safety of Calgarians is our absolute priority, and we are asking residents in affected areas to evacuate immediately."
The flooding began Thursday evening after days of heavy rainfall across southern Alberta. Environment Canada reported that some areas received more than 200 millimetres of rain in a 24-hour period, causing rivers and creeks to swell rapidly.
Evacuations Underway
Emergency officials have ordered mandatory evacuations for several Calgary neighbourhoods, including parts of downtown, Sunnyside, Hillhurst, and the Stampede grounds. The Calgary Emergency Management Agency estimates that approximately 100,000 people have been affected by evacuation orders.
TransAlta has been releasing water from the Glenmore Dam in an effort to prevent a complete failure of the structure, though officials stressed the dam remains structurally sound.
"We're managing the release of water to minimize downstream impacts while ensuring the integrity of our infrastructure," said TransAlta spokesperson Jennifer Essig.
Transportation Disrupted
The flooding has severely disrupted transportation throughout the city. The Calgary Transit system has suspended all C-Train services, and numerous roads remain impassable due to standing water.
Calgary International Airport has cancelled dozens of flights as the terminal's lower level was inundated with water. Airport Authority officials said they are working to restore operations but could not provide a timeline for full service resumption.
Highway closures extend throughout southern Alberta, with sections of Highway 1, Highway 22, and numerous secondary roads completely underwater.
Province Responds
Premier Alison Redford has mobilized provincial resources to assist with the emergency response and has been in contact with Prime Minister Stephen Harper regarding federal assistance.
"The Government of Alberta is committed to providing all necessary resources to help communities deal with this natural disaster," Redford said in a statement. "We will be there to support Albertans through this difficult time and the recovery that follows."
The Canadian Armed Forces have been placed on standby to assist with rescue operations and logistical support if requested by provincial authorities.
Alberta Emergency Management Agency officials are coordinating with municipal emergency services across affected areas, including High River, Okotoks, and numerous rural communities where residents have been forced from their homes.
Weather forecasts indicate the rain is expected to taper off through the weekend, though river levels may continue to rise as upstream precipitation makes its way downstream.
Residents in evacuation zones are being directed to emergency reception centres set up at various locations throughout the city, including the Stampede Corral and Max Bell Centre.
