Municipalities across southern and central Alberta are enacting emergency flood preparations as a flood watch remains active for the Bow River and Pipestone River near Lake Louise.
Local officials are monitoring rising water levels and increasing river debris, which threaten low-lying areas and regional infrastructure.
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A high streamflow advisory spans the Bow River from upstream of Banff to the Ghost Reservoir.
Officials forecast a 30-centimeter water level increase throughout Friday, threatening low-lying sections of Banff and signaling potential groundwater complications for Canmore and Exshaw.
Though initial Friday forecasts predicted up to 90 mm of rain for Banff National Park between Saturday and Tuesday, Environment Canada adjusted those totals down to between 30 and 60 mm on Saturday morning.
The region anticipates 5 to 10 mm of precipitation from weekend thunderstorms, followed by heavier downpours starting Sunday night that could dump 20 to 40 mm by Tuesday.
Higher elevations may also experience 10 to 20 cm of snowfall on Monday and Tuesday.
Government monitoring remains active over the weekend to assist local municipalities if river conditions deteriorate.
"We step in when the local agencies get overwhelmed, so we’ve been on standby," said Premier Danielle Smith.
The provincial government continues to track regional water levels while comparing current data to historical flood events.
"I’m told we’re watching it this weekend, but at the moment, there’s not the level of risk like we would have had back in 2013.
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If that changes, we’ll make sure everybody knows," Smith added.
In response to the risk, the Calgary Fire Department issued a boating advisory for the Bow and Elbow rivers on Friday, noting that water flow rates have exceeded safe levels.
Environment Canada subsequently issued a rainfall warning for Calgary on Saturday afternoon, forecasting 50 to 100 mm of rain between Saturday night and Wednesday, with localized amounts potentially exceeding 100 mm.
"Water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas," said Environment Canada. "Don’t drive through flooded roadways.
Watch for washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts."
Calgary officials lowered the Glenmore reservoir water level by approximately one meter on Friday as a proactive defense mechanism.
City crews have closed several pedestrian pathways beneath bridges, and additional closures are expected through Sunday.
Simultaneously, surrounding jurisdictions are urging property owners to take independent defensive steps against the incoming storm system.
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"While conditions can change, now is a good time to take a few simple precautions to help protect your home, property, and family," said Rocky View County.
