Heavy rainfall in Edmonton has prompted Epcor to continue warnings, urging residents to stay away from the North Saskatchewan River and storm ponds. The utility also asks people to limit water use to prevent sewer backups.
Closures and Restrictions
Peter Hemingway Aquatic Centre at Coronation Park is closed until further notice due to weather-related flooding. A footbridge near the river has also been closed. Residents are asked to defer laundry, showers, and dishwasher use, and reduce toilet flushing.
As of June 22, Edmonton has received over 190 mm of rain this month—more than double the average. Environment Canada issued orange rainfall warnings over the weekend for central Alberta, with heaviest concentrations south and east of the city, including Fort Saskatchewan, Wetaskiwin, Camrose, and Vegreville. About 95 mm fell in Edmonton over the weekend, with over 100 mm west of the city.
Epcor's Response
Epcor responded to more than 600 calls on Sunday, mainly from residents reporting water pooling near properties or home flooding. The utility advises residents to extend downspouts, check sump pumps and backwater valves, and clear eavestroughs, weeping tiles, and window wells.
“What seem like small steps can be the difference in helping neighbours avoid flooding and sewer backups,” Epcor stated.
Storm Pond Safety
Epcor warns Edmontonians to keep a safe distance from over 240 stormwater ponds, as water levels continue to rise. Many ponds are spilling over banks onto park pathways. “These ponds are doing their most important job right now, collecting excess rainwater, slowing its entry into the system and improving the quality of water that will eventually enter the North Saskatchewan River,” Epcor said.
Water Restrictions
While St. Albert lifted its water-use ban, Edmonton's restrictions remained in place as of Monday evening. Mayor Andrew Knack said, “We ask Edmontonians to continue to do their part and take immediate steps to reduce their water use. The current alert continues until 8:55 p.m. and will be re-evaluated later today. We have seen neighbours come together to support one another, which is the most Edmontonian thing we can do.”
Anthony Nardi, a senior director with Epcor water services, noted that a decision on extending restrictions would be made later Monday. “At the moment, we haven’t made that decision (to end restrictions), but we plan to make a decision on whether or not to extend tonight. We continue to monitor levels and, when we feel comfortable and safe to remove the restrictions, we will notify all Edmontonians,” said Nardi.
