Calgary Faces Second Major Water Main Break in Two Years

Calgary has encountered another significant water emergency, marking its second major water main break in only two years. This latest incident occurred on 16th Avenue N.W., prompting an immediate response from city officials and emergency services.

Details of the Water Main Break

City officials categorized this break as “catastrophic,” the highest level of severity according to the city’s risk assessment. Flooding was reported under the CPKC rail bridge at 69th Street N.W. on a Tuesday evening, resulting in emergency crews rescuing thirteen individuals from eight vehicles trapped in the rising waters.

Incident Timeline and Background

The break in the Bearspaw south feeder main took place around 8 p.m. It affected a pipe section installed in 1975. Nancy Mackay, director of water services, stated that a “rapid drop in pressure” was linked to the incident.

Impact on Residents

• Thirteen people rescued from vehicles.
• Boil water advisories issued for Parkdale, Montgomery, Point McKay, and West Hillhurst.
• Stage 4 water restrictions enforced, disallowing outdoor water use.
• Residents advised to limit water usage: three-minute showers, essential toilet flushing, and full loads for dishwashers and washing machines.

Residents like Josh Podulsky described the situation as alarming, with water levels quickly rising around their vehicles, leading him to stay inside for safety. He estimated his car was likely totaled due to the extent of the flooding.

City’s Response and Future Actions

Officials have assured residents of immediate actions to manage the water supply. Water wagons will be deployed to affected communities, while those outside the impacted areas can still use water safely. Calgary’s Emergency Management Agency emphasized the need for residents to reduce their water consumption amid the crisis.

Monitoring and Prevention Measures

Following the previous break in 2024, city infrastructure was continuously monitored, yet this break occurred without warning signs. Officials noted that despite the use of advanced monitoring systems, there were no indicators of pipe weakness before the event.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas labeled the existing pipe system a “ticking time bomb,” calling for immediate replacements to prevent future incidents. He indicated that improving infrastructure is essential to reassure Calgarians that their water supply is secure.

Investigation and Future Plans

The city has begun inspecting the break’s severity and plans to drain the pipe before performing necessary repairs. Mackay mentioned that the timeline for restoring service could vary, estimating seven to ten days for repairs if there’s only one break to address.

Calgary’s recent weather patterns, characterized by rapid temperature fluctuations, may have contributed to soil movements surrounding the pipes, prompting the latest break. Municipal officials remain committed to addressing the underlying issues to prevent the recurrence of severe outages in the future.