Preparations underway as Calgary readies for heavy rain Friday

CTV News

6 hours ago

An empty downtown Calgary, Alta., is shown on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh)
The City of Calgary says preparations are under way with heavy rainfall in the forecast.
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special weather statement on Thursday warning of heavy rain and strong winds anticipated in southern Alberta.
Despite this, the City of Calgary says no flooding over riverbanks is expected.
'Currently, forecasts are calling for widespread heavy precipitation over the Bow and Elbow basins from Friday through Sunday, with around 100 millimetres expected across the region,' the city said in a Thursday news release.
'For safety of pathway users, the city may temporarily close some pathways due to high flow rates on the Bow and Elbow rivers.'
The city says it will be releasing some water downstream from the Glenmore Reservoir to make room for the rain.
'While precipitation is welcome due to recent dry conditions, the intensity and widespread nature of the expected rain is prompting precautionary action,' explained Frank Frigo, the city's manager of environmental management.
What Calgarians should do
The City of Calgary offered this advice on what Calgarians can do to prepare for the deluge:
Exercise caution around riverbanks as fast-moving water can cause erosion and destabilization;
Warn children about the dangers of fast-moving water, especially those who live near rivers;
Keep off temporarily closed pathways and away from any low-lying flooded areas near the river, for safety;
Check for a boating advisory before going on the river and stay off the river if there is an advisory in place;
Keep pets away from fast-moving water;
Remove lawn furniture and other portable items off the riverbank;
Secure items on your property in case of high winds or hail; and
Direct eavestroughs and extensions onto landscaped areas at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) away from your home and your neighbours' home.
The city is asking residents to report pooling water on city streets by calling 311 or filing an online request. However, they're warned to wait 90 minutes before doing so, as the city has special devices in storm drains that allow water to drain slowly so as to not overload the stormwater system.
If, after 90 minutes, they haven't drained, you can report it, and crews will respond on a priority basis.