Warnings remain in effect as heavy rain swells Calgary rivers
Posted Jun 1, 2026 11:24 am.
Steady rain continues to fall, and river levels remain high as officials monitor conditions in the Calgary area.
The city has been dealing with persistent rainfall and swelling waterways, with a rainfall warning still in effect, and totals are expected to surpass 100 millimetres by midweek.
Parts of the city have already received between 60 and 80 millimetres of rain since the system began last week, with another 20 to 40 millimetres forecast through Tuesday.
A yellow rainfall warning covers much of Alberta, including Calgary, while the province’s River Forecast Centre has issued new high streamflow advisories across the Bow River basin, including Fish Creek and Jumpingpound Creek. The Bow and Elbow rivers are higher than usual, but according to the city, the situation remains stable and flood risk is considered low.
Officials say the rise in water levels is being driven by a mix of recent rainfall, ongoing showers and snowmelt.
The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) has issued a boating advisory, citing dangerous conditions along the rivers. Some pathways near riverbanks and under bridges have been closed due to fast-moving currents and elevated water levels.
Fire officials are urging residents to stay away from riverbanks and keep pets away from off-leash areas near the water.
“Make sure people pay attention, particularly if you have pets or animals,” said CFD spokesperson Alex Kwan.
RCMP in Cochrane are also warning residents to avoid rivers and creeks amid concerns they could breach their banks.
Meteorologist Kevin Stanfield says while the bulk of the rain has already fallen, the system is not finished yet and another 20 to 40 mm is expected.
“While the majority of this rain from this system has already fallen, we’re not quite out of the woods yet, with consistent showers expected through today and parts of Tuesday as well,” says Stanfield.
In Calgary’s Beltline, the OB Sound Room on 1 Street SW has closed due to flooding, with staff saying its pump system is working to clear water from the basement venue.
A flood watch remains in place for Kananaskis Country west of the city, while areas near Lake Louise continue to be monitored.
In Banff, caution tape surrounds parts of the Bow Falls viewing area due to high water levels. Officials there say it is too early to determine when the Bow River will crest, with more showers expected over the coming days.
Calgary’s current conditions and extended forecast can be found here.
