Water main break on Bowness Road

Earlier this evening, we received reports of a water main break in the 5100 block of Bowness Road NW.

While this break is near the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, it is not on the feeder main itself, and it is not impacting the flow of water through the feeder main. 

The break is located on a much smaller, 10-inch cast iron pipe that we have confirmed is not directly connected to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. 

Crews quickly responded and have shut off valves to stop the flow of water. The affected area is draining. Tonight we will work to find the exact location of the break. Repairs will begin tomorrow morning, and typically take 48 hours.

Unfortunately, this break has affected some nearby homes and businesses. We are working to provide temporary water services, including water wagons.

The road in the area of the break has been temporarily closed. It will reopen when it is safe to do so. Please drive carefully and follow detour and other signage.

This incident does not affect our ability to meet Calgary's current water demand, and our water remains safe to drink.

This will be the last update for the evening unless there are significant new developments.

About water main breaks

Water main breaks of this size are not unusual. Calgary maintains nearly 15,000 kilometres of underground water infrastructure as part of our drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems. We have one of the lowest number of average breaks per 100 kilometres when compared to other major Canadian cities.