The City of Calgary has declared a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) effective immediately. It is opening the Emergency Operation Centre to lead coordination and response efforts and is taking several steps to protect critical infrastructure and the safety of citizens.

Over the last 24 hours, forecast conditions in the Kananaskis region and Calgary have not improved, with the potential for more severe weather than originally anticipated. At this point, river flows are not expected to cause widespread overbank flooding.

“At the City of Calgary, we learned many important lessons from 2013 when we endured major flooding. Today, we have flood mitigation measures in place that put us in a better position than 10 years ago,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I realize that this weather event may cause fear and anxieties to arise for Calgarians, especially for those who have lived through flooding before. Let me reassure you that you are in good hands and we will continue to ensure communications are clear and frequent.”

The updated forecast is calling for as much as 150 mm by Wednesday morning, with some models calling for more. The peak river flow is expected Wednesday morning or early afternoon on the Elbow and Wednesday evening on the Bow. Conditions are expected to change as rainfall continues.

Conversely, the City of Airdrie has put out a statement that includes some short- and long-term tips to stay safe and prevent basement seepage during heavy rainfall, including, reporting obstructed catch basins to the City, staying away from storm ponds, culverts, banks of Nose Creek and drainage features as water levels and flow may fluctuate rapidly, as well as using caution and slowing down on roadways with pooling water.

"If water pools by the storm drain, give it 90 minutes to drain. The City has devices in the storm drains that allow the water to drain slowly and not overload the stormwater system," the city website states.

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