Calgary fire officials are warning people to stay off the Bow and Elbow rivers after continued rainfall pushed water levels above safe recommended flow rates for boating, floating and swimming.

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The Calgary Fire Department issued a river safety advisory effective immediately, advising against boating and all other water activities on both rivers.

Officials said the advisory is expected to remain in place through Canada Day and could continue into the end of the week.

Widespread flooding not expected, but localized flooding possible

The City of Calgary’s Environmental Risk and Resilience team has advised that widespread overbank flooding is not anticipated.

However, officials said localized flooding remains possible, and high flow rates may continue to create dangerous conditions on and near the rivers.

Water temperatures remain cold, and higher flows have increased turbidity, making underwater hazards harder to see.

Strong winds have also increased debris in the rivers, including trees and branches.

Officials said the faster-moving water increases the risk of someone being swept away if they fall in. There is also a higher risk of people being pinned against obstacles, including bridge pillars.

CFD says risk remains high regardless of skill level

“While the school year has ended and everyone is excited for summer, the Calgary Fire Department advises everyone to stay off the Bow and the Elbow Rivers, until safer conditions return and the river safety advisory is lifted,” said Alex Kwan, CFD’s public information officer.

Kwan said the warning is also important as Calgary heads toward Stampede and expects more visitors.

“We know that Calgarians love their rivers, and as we head into the Stampede, we welcome lots of visitors, so we want to remind everyone that when our waterways flow this high and fast, there’s significant risk, regardless of your watercraft or skill level,” Kwan said.

“Those walking near our City’s rivers, including people with pets, should be careful as well.”

Flow rates above advisory thresholds

According to the Calgary Fire Department, river usage advisories are issued when several conditions are present, including turbidity, debris and high flow rates.

Those advisory thresholds include Bow River flow rates above 280 cubic metres per second and Elbow River flow rates above 50 cubic metres per second.

Calgary Fire and its Aquatics Team will continue monitoring Calgary’s waterways while the advisory remains in place.

Officials said they will notify the public when the advisory is lifted.

Residents urged to avoid river activities

Calgarians are being urged to reschedule any recreational activities on the Bow and Elbow rivers until the advisory is lifted.

Officials are also reminding parents to warn children about the dangers of fast-moving water, especially if they live near the rivers.

Cyclists and pedestrians are being asked to watch for low-lying areas where river water may cover pathways.

Pet owners are also being told to keep animals away from fast-moving water.

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