The beginning of the flooding season has arrived in southern Alberta; however, it seems that the city of Calgary isn’t at significant risk from the swelling waters of the Bow and Elbow rivers this time around.
Dr. John Pomeroy, who chairs the Centre for Hydrology at the University of Saskatchewan, informed Global News that the snowpack levels in the Rocky Mountains are "significantly below average and melting prematurely," indicating that "the water supply in nearby rivers is much lower than usual."
Should flooding happen, it would likely result from heavy rainfall, according to Pomerogy. This could take place during a drought year as well, provided a sufficiently intense storm passes through.
The Springbank off-stream reservoir, currently under construction west of Calgary, aims to safeguard the city against potential future floods along the Elbow River. Global News
Frank Frigo, who manages environmental affairs for the City of Calgary, asserts that the flood prevention measures implemented after the severe floods in 2013 have enhanced the city’s defenses against future flooding.
"Going forward, we have reduced the expected flood damage by 70 percent," stated Frigo.
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The severe flooding that hit the city of Calgary in 2013 is believed to have caused approximately $5 billion worth of damages, ranking it among the most expensive disasters in Canadian history. Global News
Recently finished or ongoing flood mitigation initiatives in the Calgary region encompass the construction of the Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir, a revamped Sunnyside pumping station, as well as installation of the Bonnybrook flood barrier.
The three initiatives will come at a cost of nearly $1 billion, with contributions from the city, provincial, and federal governments.
Video: Reflecting on the Calgary flood from 5 years ago
