State of Emergency Declared in Kananaskis Country Following Severe Flooding

Nature’s power has once again reminded visitors and residents of the unpredictable beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Alberta Parks has officially declared a local state of emergency in parts of Kananaskis Country after relentless rainfall led to localized flooding, leaving hundreds of campers stranded and critical infrastructure compromised.

The situation has escalated quickly, with an estimated 1,500 people currently unable to leave various campgrounds due to dangerous road conditions. Emergency responders and Alberta Parks staff are working tirelessly to evacuate those in need and monitor the stability of the region’s infrastructure.

Critical Road Closures and Connectivity Issues

The primary focus for emergency management is currently the Highway 40 corridor. Significant damage has been reported, making travel nearly impossible in several sections. Key impacts include:

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• Evan Thomas Bridge: Currently impassable, cutting off a vital route for those attempting to exit the area.
• Secondary Bridges: Multiple other crossings have been affected, though to a lesser degree than the Evan Thomas Bridge.
• Access Restrictions: Alberta Parks is urging potential visitors to postpone any travel to the region until conditions improve and roads are deemed safe.

Canmore on High Alert: Evacuations and Safety Warnings

The impact of the storm extends beyond the wilderness. In the nearby town of Canmore, an evacuation alert has been issued, specifically for residents in the Palliser area. Located parallel to the Bow River and the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), this area is particularly vulnerable to rapidly changing water levels.

Mayor Sean Krausert has acknowledged the anxiety these events cause, especially for those who lived through the devastating 2013 floods. Residents are advised to have an emergency kit packed with essentials sufficient for at least 72 hours.

Rainfall Statistics at a Glance

The intensity of the precipitation was staggering. According to the Emergency Coordination Centre for the Town of Canmore:

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• Cougar Creek Watershed: Approximately 131 mm of rain.
• Canmore Civic Center: Approximately 67 mm of rain.
• Peak Intensity: Precipitation reached up to 9 mm per hour during the heaviest bursts.

Where to Find Help and Shelter

For those currently trapped or needing a safe haven, Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen, has confirmed that temporary shelters are available. If you are in the area and lack a safe, dry place to stay, please head to:

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• William Watson Lodge
• Peter Lougheed Discovery Centre

Authorities advise anyone currently in a safe location to remain where they are to avoid further congesting damaged roads and risking their safety. For real-time weather updates and safety warnings, we recommend monitoring Alberta Parks and Environment Canada.

Stay safe, stay informed, and respect the power of the Rockies.