Update July 28: Critical water main break affecting city-wide water usage
Update July 28: Critical water main break affecting city-wide water usage - YouTube
CALGARY – Monitoring of the water feeder main and our water distribution system continues with no new wire snaps detected in the pipe Saturday.
We continue to observe the system to ensure stability and are analyzing results from the pipe diver inspection of the feeder main, which will take several days.
“While this analysis continues, and in light of the wire snaps on Thursday and Friday, we are leaving Stage 1 Water Restrictions in place,” said City of Calgary Water Services Director Nancy Mackay.
There were three additional wire snaps detected Thursday and one Friday.
Saturday’s demand was 606 million litres – which was as expected with cooler temperatures.
“The system is stable today and there have not been any further wire snaps detected on the feeder main since yesterday,” said Mackay.
Stage 1 Water Restrictions
As a reminder, Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions allow for use of a sprinkler, soaker hose or in-ground sprinkling system (including testing) for up to two hours a week, on a set schedule among other things.
- House numbers ending with an even number can water on Wednesdays or Saturdays.
- House numbers ending with an odd number can water on Thursdays or Sundays.
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.
- Water use for construction and home renovation purposes.
- Filling up private outdoor pools including kiddie or backyard pools.
- Kids can play in the sprinkler to cool off, but please be mindful of the water use and shut it off when they are done playing.
To get the most benefit from watering, consider following these tips:
- Water use is recommended in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation during the hottest part of the day.
- Use the right watering tools. Keep water low and slow so it reaches the plant roots instead of evaporating or running off.
- Reduce mowing and watering by keeping your lawn at least 2 to 3 inches high. Taller grass shades the soil, requires less water and stays healthier.
The following is not allowed at any time:
- Washing driveways and sidewalks.
- Water use for home renovation projects is permitted. Washing surfaces such as driveways to prepare for paving/sealing or washing a home prior to painting, for example, would be allowed.
- Washing windows or exterior building surfaces, unless it is done by a business licensed to perform this service.
- Filling fountains and decorative water features, except for bird baths, which are allowed.
- Washing your car or other vehicles with water in the driveway or street.
For more information on restrictions and frequently asked questions, visit calgary.ca/restrictions.
Next steps
We will continue to investigate and closely monitor and will continue with daily updates.