Calgary,
01
June
2020
|
18:17
America/Denver

Boating advisory for the Elbow and Bow Rivers

The City of Calgary is issuing a boating advisory for the Bow and Elbow Rivers, due to higher expected flow rates and the current forecast. Calgarians are advised against boating and all other watercraft activities on the rivers during this time.

We are expecting ongoing high flows for the next while, due to snowmelt, the ongoing presence of thunderstorms, and a low pressure system entering Alberta on the weekend.

No flooding over riverbanks is expected, however, flows on the Bow and Elbow are currently fast, cold and murky, making conditions on and near the rivers dangerous.

Members of Calgary Fire Department Aquatics Team will be monitoring the rivers while the advisory is in place. For the safety of river users and emergency responders, The City advises everyone to stay off the Elbow and Bow Rivers until conditions return to safe levels and the advisory is lifted.

It is also important for Calgarians near the rivers to be aware of high flow levels. Calgarians are urged to:

  • Exercise caution around river banks as the fast-moving water can cause erosion and destabilization of river banks.
  • Warn their children about the dangers of fast-moving water, particularly those residents who live near the rivers.
  • Cyclists and pedestrians should watch for low-lying areas where the river can submerge the pathways
  • Keep pets away from fast moving water.
  • Remove lawn furniture and other portable items off the river bank.

The City encourages all water users to familiarize themselves with safety practice bylaws and safety alerts on calgary.ca/watersafety and monitor flow levels at rivers.alberta.ca. Learn more about river flow rates – what is normal, and when flooding begins, on The City’s River Flow Rates webpage.

Pathway closures

Visit calgary.ca/pathwayclosures for up to date information on pathway closures.

-30-