Update July 19: Critical water main break affecting city-wide water usage
Water is flowing through the Bearspaw South Feeder Main pipe at 70% of its maximum speed, and the pipe continues to perform well. There have been no new wire snaps detected. The pipe is able to supply enough water to meet an increased demand.
Our water use rose yesterday to 629 million litres, which was as expected at Stage 2 Restrictions and with current hot weather temperatures.
This weekend we will continue monitoring the pipe’s performance and water demand. More information will be known Monday whether we are ready to move to Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions.
Full details of what to expect under each stage of restrictions can be found at calgary.ca/restrictions.
We are currently in Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions. Under Stage 2, we can now use a sprinkler, soaker hose or in-ground sprinkling system for up to one hour a week, on specific days.
- Some sprinkler use on certain days and times:
- Water with a sprinkler for up to one hour per week on a set schedule
- Sprinkler schedule is based on address
- House numbers ending with an even number can use a sprinkler Wednesday or Saturday
- House numbers ending with an odd number can use a sprinkler Thursday or Sunday
- Sprinkler use is allowed in the morning or later in the evening to avoid evaporation during the hottest part of the day.
The following is allowed at any time:
- Watering with a hose that has a trigger spray nozzle or drip irrigation
- Hand watering using a watering can or other container
- Watering new grass with a sprinkler or irrigation system
- Water use for pesticide or fertilizer application
The following is not allowed at any time:
- Outdoor washing of cars, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways or walkways. Note: manual window washing by certified companies is allowed, other window washing is not.
- Filling fountains or other decorative features, except for bird baths
These restrictions continue to apply to all customers who use City water. This includes all Calgary residences, businesses and City operations.
- While filling fountains and water features is not allowed, you can look after our feathered friends and fill bird baths.
- Water use is still not permitted for washing outdoor surfaces. Only licensed window washing companies are allowed to clean windows manually under this stage.
- Only wash cars, trucks, motorcycles and other vehicles at an indoor car wash. Car washes filter and recycle their water, and as a result use less than you would to spray your vehicle at home.