How prepared is Calgary for its next emergency or natural disaster?

Calgarians are being warned that major emergencies are becoming harder to predict and more complex to manage.

New data presented to the city’s emergency management committee on Wednesday shows the number of high‑risk hazards facing Calgary has grown, with officials pointing to extreme weather events, infrastructure strain, and evolving threats as key factors.

The Disaster Risk Assessment 2026 report identifies 67 hazards in total, with the number of high‑risk threats increasing from 19 to 22.

The city’s Emergency Management Chief, Sue Henry, says that shifting climate patterns are already reshaping the city’s response demands.

“Our disasters are becoming more frequent, and they’re more complex when they do occur,” she said, noting that annual hailstorms have become almost guaranteed.

The report is prompting new planning efforts, including Calgary’s first city‑wide wildfire strategy, as hotter, drier summers and expanding neighbourhoods push fire risk higher.

However, some emergencies have become far more predictable with Ward 4 Coun. DJ Kelly pointing to recurring hailstorms, the likelihood of another major water‑main break before new infrastructure is completed, and growing cybersecurity concerns.

“Cybersecurity risk is another big one for us,” Kelly says.

Emergency officials emphasized that preparedness isn’t only a municipal responsibility. Residents are being urged to keep insurance up to date, make evacuation plans, and maintain emergency kits.

City officials say that while disasters are becoming more complex, household readiness can significantly improve outcomes when the next emergency hits.

A more detailed risk report is expected later this year, outlining how Calgary’s threats are evolving.