Calgary’s two primary water sources — the Bow and Elbow Rivers — are now under shortage advisories, prompting renewed concerns about the city’s long-term water security.

New data from 2025 indicate that river flows are running below natural levels and approaching restriction thresholds, raising concerns as Calgary’s population and water demands continue to grow.

Alberta was allocated nearly 9.7 billion cubic metres of water in 2023, primarily sourced from rivers and lakes. But with dry conditions persisting, officials say the province’s water infrastructure must evolve to meet future challenges.

Nicole Newton, Manager of Natural Environment and Adaptation for the City of Calgary, says reservoir levels are currently sufficient to get through the winter, and meteorological forecasts sugge

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