Update June 15: Critical water main break affecting city-wide water usage

Calgary – Following the news that Calgary has enacted a State of Local Emergency in response to the ongoing water feeder main issue, The City is reminding Calgarians to continue supporting one another as we work together to reduce our consumption and conserve water.

Rainfall expected to provide outdoor watering relief

With rainfall in the forecast, The City is reminding Calgarians that rainy days are the best opportunity to collect water. This water is a good relief for our lawns, gardens and other outdoor water demands as outdoor watering restrictions continue to remain in place.

“Collecting rainwater isn’t limited to rain barrels,” says Calgary Emergency Management Agency Chief Sue Henry. “Any type of container can be put out to collect the rain. An old pot or pan, garbage can, kiddie pool – any container will be helpful to store up for those drier days, if they come, while we are still repairing the line.”

Feeder main repair work ongoing

Yesterday, we announced that investigation of our water feeder main revealed additional sections of damaged pipe requiring repair. This repair work is being undertaken at this stage to ensure the resumption of service as quickly as possible.

Work is already underway, with crews performing site inspections at additional work locations. Replacement pipes have been sourced and are already enroute to Calgary.

Crews working on the original 16 Avenue water feeder main break spent today applying an anti-corrosive coating to the pipe to help prevent future issues.

Water use remains steady

Citywide, our water use remained constant at 480 Mega Litres of water on Friday, June 14, matching the previous day’s total. We are reminding Calgarians that 480 Mega Litres is the maximum threshold to ensure water reserve levels remain consistent, and ideally we would be under that number to ensure adequate water supply in case of an emergency.

Bylaw and Enforcement

We continue following up on calls to 311 for water misuse. Since the event began, we have received 1,794 calls.

Officers have issued more than 1,000 warnings (507 verbal warnings, 551 written warnings), and two tickets to contractors associated with construction work.

There have been 204 calls for fire pits, resulting in 45 verbal warnings, 13 written warnings and one ticket. There have also been 113 informational inquiries about Fire Bans.

The Calgary Fire Department has comprehensive plans and alternative operating procedures to supplement water supply if necessary. There are multiple non-hydrant firefighting strategies (including plans, personnel, apparatuses, alternate water sources and equipment) in place to meet the challenges we are facing with this emergency.

Roads and Mobility

Detours are currently in place as 16 Avenue remains closed at Home Road N.W.

The City of Calgary thanks affected residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation during this time.

For more information and a resource of frequently asked questions visit Calgary.ca/16avewatermain or contact 311.