Residents asked to conserve water after heavy downpour in Edmonton area

After weeks of rain, people in Edmonton and surrounding communities are being asked to limit their non-essential water usage.

EDMONTON — Days of heavy rainfall has Alberta’s capital city and surrounding communities dealing with localized flooding and wastewater systems operating past capacity.

Utilities provider Epcor says with more rain in the forecast for the Edmonton area, the stormwater system remains under pressure.

It says it received more than 600 calls about flooding, adding that it continues to respond on priorities including public safety.

The City of Edmonton issued a water supply alert Sunday evening, asking residents to avoid unnecessary indoor water use, limit showers and baths, delay laundry and dishwasher use, and ensure sump pumps and downspouts are functioning properly.

Similar warnings are in place for nearby cities and towns, including Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Beaumont and Tofield.

The City of St. Albert, northwest of Edmonton, cancelled its warning in the afternoon. 

Epcor also said Monday that residents living near stormwater ponds should keep a distance as water levels continue to rise. 

“These ponds are doing their most important job right now, collecting excess rainwater, slowing its entry into the system and improving the quality of water that will eventually enter the North Saskatchewan River,” it said.

Environment Canada said up to 110 millimetres of rain fell in the area as of early Sunday evening, and another 40 millimetres were expected before tapering off early Tuesday.

The area also had a risk of a thunderstorms Monday night, the agency said. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 22, 2026