City Calls for Reduced Water Use as Stormwater Systems Strain
Edmonton is asking residents and businesses to minimize their water consumption as the city confronts the effects of extensive rainfall and anticipates more precipitation. Mayor Andrew Knack expressed confidence that citizens will respond by limiting non-essential water use, such as delaying laundry and dishwashing, to alleviate pressure on the city’s stormwater infrastructure.
“I see no reason why that wouldn’t occur this time around,” Mayor Knack stated earlier this week, recalling past instances where Edmontonians readily answered similar calls for conservation. Previously, the city issued a water supply alert on Sunday evening, which included a directive to ensure sump pumps and downspouts were functioning correctly. This alert was scheduled for re-evaluation on Monday evening.
Stormwater System Nearing Capacity
Officials from utilities provider Epcor indicated that the duration of the water conservation appeal remains uncertain but is likely to continue. Martin Kennedy, speaking for Epcor, commented, “My money will say that that’s highly likely, given the current state.” He further noted that by the end of next week, the region is projected to have experienced the wettest June in over a century, pushing the stormwater system close to its operational limits.
Kennedy warned of an increased risk of sewer backups in various parts of the city. “The best thing we can do is conserve water for a couple of days,” he urged, emphasizing that the appeal aims to address immediate system pressures and prepare for upcoming rainfall.
Epcor has already responded to over 600 calls, many related to flooding and sewer backups. In response to the high water levels of the North Saskatchewan River, the City of Edmonton has closed several adjacent trails due to safety concerns. The Mill Creek in south Edmonton also overflowed its banks on Monday afternoon, transforming the typically placid waterway into a powerful torrent.
Broader Impact and Forecast
Similar water conservation advisories were issued for neighboring municipalities, including Stony Plain and Beaumont. St. Albert and Stony Plain rescinded their advisories on Monday afternoon. An alert for these communities highlighted the risk to municipal emergency services, stating, “Municipal emergency services are at risk of flood and becoming inoperable.” Residents were advised to be prepared for potential immediate evacuations.
The town of Tofield has opened an emergency evacuation center at the Tofield Community Hall for residents displaced by flooding. In Edmonton, Epcor also cautioned residents living near stormwater ponds to maintain a safe distance as water levels continue to rise. These ponds are currently performing a critical function by collecting excess rainwater, slowing its entry into the drainage system, and improving the quality of water before it reaches the North Saskatchewan River.
Record Rainfall Totals
Meteorologist Chloe Katsademas from Environment and Climate Change Canada reported that Edmonton received 104 millimeters of rain over a three-day period. Additional showers were anticipated for Monday evening, with a possibility of thunderstorms. As of the latest data, Edmonton has recorded 199 millimeters of rainfall this June, approaching the record of 216.5 millimeters set in 1914.
“So we are still in second place — but the month isn’t over,” Katsademas noted. While the immediate weather is expected to improve, more rain is forecast for later in the week.
