The City of Calgary has issued a provincial emergency alert warning that water supply levels across the region remain “critical,” prompting renewed calls for immediate conservation.
The alert applies to all communities served by Calgary’s water system, including Airdrie, Strathmore, the Tsuut’ina Nation, and Chestermere.
Officials say the situation requires urgent action from both residents and businesses to reduce consumption and help stabilize the strained system.
Under the advisory, households and commercial users are being instructed to cut indoor water use as much as possible. Recommended measures include limiting showers to under three minutes, reducing toilet flushing, and running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
City officials say water use climbed again on Tuesday, reaching 511 million litres. Use decreased Wednesday to 507 million litres, which is welcome news, but still well above the target of 485 million litres.
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas is urging those who can work from home to do so, noting that reduced activity in workplaces may help curb overall water demand. A notice sent to municipal staff encourages eligible employees to work remotely until Jan. 16.
Calgary remains under Stage 4 water restrictions, the highest level, which requires significant reductions in both indoor and outdoor water use.
Residents are being asked to stay informed by monitoring local media or visiting the City of Calgary’s website for ongoing updates as the situation evolves.
Temporary water outage in Bowness
Water service interruption in Bowness began on Wednesday morning and will affect 30 homes and one business over two days.
The impacted properties include the Shane Homes West Soccer Dome and homes along 48 Avenue NW and 33 Avenue NW. Those affected have been notified by crews, according to the city.
Officials say the interruption is necessary because crews will be inspecting the feeder main in the area.
“To enter the pipe and undertake this work safely, crews must first drain a section of the pipe and ensure it is safe for entry,” reads a city release.
Inspections are expected to be completed early Thursday, and the return to service for the 30 homes and Shane Homes West Soccer Dome will follow.
Crews have installed the new pipe sections, and welding is now underway. Officials have said they are hoping to return the pipe to service early next week.