City of Edmonton impacts due to heavy rains |
June 22, 2026
The City of Edmonton and EPCOR work together during periods of increased, sustained rainfall. Edmonton, like other surrounding communities, continues to experience a regional weather event that is putting pressure on stormwater systems.
EPCOR is leading the response on the drainage system and has crews working around the clock to manage conditions and respond to resident concerns. One of the most important things Edmontonians can do right now is take immediate steps to reduce water use. Small steps, such as delaying laundry or shortening showers, are effective in taking pressure off the system.
The City of Edmonton is closely monitoring the situation and City crews are actively inspecting and assessing impacts from the inclement weather. We are also working to minimize impacts to City-delivered programs and services; however, some closures are in effect.
An Alberta Emergency Alert was issued on June 21 to urge Edmontonians to reduce indoor water use and reduce pressure on the water system. For updates to the Alberta Emergency Alert, visit alberta.ca/EmergencyAlert or download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and subscribe to notifications.
Recreation facilities
Peter Hemingway Aquatic Centre at Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre is currently closed due to flooding. There are currently no other closures of recreation and leisure centres.
Sports fields
City sports fields and ball diamonds are currently closed and will reopen as they dry. Saturated fields must not be used after heavy rain, as damage may occur due to muddy conditions. As conditions improve on unstaffed fields, status changes will be posted on Facility Notifications by 2 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends and holidays.
Residents are encouraged to check Facility Notifications or their sport and recreation organization’s website for the latest updates.
Turf maintenance
The heavy rain has impacted scheduled turf maintenance, including mowing. In addition to service delays due to wet conditions, the rain will also lead to faster turf growth. Crews are being rescheduled to address unmowed turf as soon as possible; visit the Mowing Map for the latest updates.
Golf courses
Victoria and Riverside golf courses are open for play, but power carts are not available. Rundle Golf Course is closed today and is expected to re-open June 23, weather permitting. Proshops and restaurants at all City courses remain open at this time.
River Valley and parks
The City of Edmonton has closed some low-lying trails in the river valley due to rising water levels. Please obey on-site signage and check edmonton.ca/TrailCautions for updates.
The following trails are currently closed:
- Highlands - Dawson Trail
- Capilano - Gold Bar Trail
- Emily Murphy - Kinsmen Trail
- River Loop Trail adjacent to Fort Edmonton Park
River safety
Due to high river levels and fast flow rates, all boat launches along the North Saskatchewan River are currently closed.
Swift-moving water is relentless, making it unsafe for anyone not properly prepared — including pets. It is highly recommended to keep your distance from any moving water. We strongly encourage Edmontonians to keep pets leashed when near the North Saskatchewan River and Edmonton’s stormwater ponds. Riverbanks may be weak or unstable due to erosion and destabilization.
Impacts on construction
Edmonton has a relatively short construction season, and weather conditions such as prolonged rainfall can affect certain construction activities. Some work, including excavation, paving, concrete placement and earthworks, may need to be postponed until site conditions improve. However, crews are often able to continue with other activities that are less weather-dependent.
The City and its contractors regularly adjust work plans to account for changing weather conditions and to make the best use of available construction time. While June has brought significant rainfall, there are currently no significant project setbacks or weather-related financial impacts to date.
Some work sites have localized issues with standing water, which have been managed with pumping. The City will continue to monitor conditions and work with contractors to minimize disruptions and keep projects moving forward safely and efficiently.
Gravel roads
During extreme weather events, gravel roads can experience rapidly changing conditions when saturated, often developing soft sections. Conditions can improve just as quickly as roads dry. Travelling on saturated gravel roads with heavy equipment can cause additional damage, so City crews wait until the roads are sufficiently dry and firm before dispatching graders. This approach helps ensure a safe and sustainable grading process. Inspectors are proactively inspecting grading inventory to ensure the City has a plan in place during and after weather events.
Cemeteries
Some areas within City cemeteries are experiencing high water levels, but no sites are currently considered flooded. Staff are monitoring areas where burial ceremonies are scheduled to ensure the safety of families, visitors and staff, with minimal impact on services.
Mosquitos
Wet conditions create an ideal breeding habitat for mosquitoes and may result in higher mosquito populations than we've seen in recent years. With the rain now subsiding, the City will resume its mosquito control spraying program. Edmontonians are encouraged to check their properties for standing water and remove it as soon as possible to help reduce mosquito habitat and control populations.
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