Update January 12: Major water main break
Water use is rising. Calgarians used 505 million litres yesterday, well above our 485-million-litre daily target.
“Our system remains fragile as crews continue working to restore the Bearspaw South Feeder Main,” says Calgary Emergency Management Agency Chief Sue Henry. “Sustained reductions are essential to make sure water supply is available for everyone, in particular hospitals, care homes and for fire fighting."
Thank you to everyone who is cutting back on personal water use. We are asking those on Calgary’s water system to cut just 25-30 litres per person per day.
These three actions can deliver immediate savings:
• Flush only when needed. Skipping three flushes saves up to 18 litres a day.
• Shorten showers. Each minute saved cuts up to 8 litres.
• Run full loads only. It is less wasteful to use full dishwashers and washing machines.
Learn more about the most commonly asked questions about the Bearspaw South Feeder Main break, visit: https://www.calgary.ca/emergencies/feeder-main-repair/water-main-break-faq.html#boilwater
CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS
Crews are collecting water samples to confirm our water meets or exceeds drinking water standards set by Alberta Health Services and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.
Once testing confirms the water is safe, crews will begin refilling the pipe. Increasing flow carries risk, and the system is being closely monitored throughout this stage.
The focus remains on returning the pipe to service as quickly and safely as possible. Updates will be provided as soon as new information is available.
PROTECTING THE COMMUNITY
As we work to return the feeder main to service, we’ve been planning ahead for multiple contingencies in the event of an unexpected break by implementing a community protection plan.
Over the past few days we have:
· Removed parts of two sections of the berm along Montgomery Boulevard NW
· Installed temporary barriers along the Bow River Pathway near Parkdale Boulevard NW, between 30th & 33rd Streets
· Cleared catch basins
· Opened river outflows
· Replaced select manhole covers with ones that allow water to drain more quickly.
Over the next few days people in the areas around the feeder main may see other activities as we put this plan into place, like increased presence of Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police, City work crews, and Utility teams.
We advise businesses and communities to be prepared for an emergency. An emergency action plan can reduce the impact by preparing you and your family members to know what to do and who to call. Planning resources are available on calgary.ca/getready
ROADS AND MOBILITY
Westbound traffic on 16 Avenue N.W. remains closed between 49 Street and Sarcee Trail N.W. Additional short-term closures are expected in Montgomery and Bowness to support Water Services return-to-service work.
For the latest information about road closures and detours, please go to: https://www.calgary.ca/roads/conditions/traffic.html
To view the daily water usage dashboard, visit calgary.ca/watermainbreak
More updates will be shared as information becomes available.
Keep updated by visiting www.calgary.ca