Water main break in northwest Calgary strands drivers, prompts new water restrictions

Calgary residents are facing renewed water restrictions after a major water main break overnight flooded a busy northwest interchange, trapping vehicles and forcing emergency rescues. The rupture occurred near the intersection of 16th Avenue NW and Sarcee Trail, close to Canada Olympic Park, an area that serves as a key commuter route.

Fire crews were called in to rescue 13 people from vehicles surrounded by freezing water as the break sent water rushing across the roadway. Police closed the interchange, and city officials say the road will remain shut while crews assess damage and begin repairs.

Several nearby homes and businesses have been placed under a boil water advisory. The City of Calgary is also asking residents citywide to reduce water use, including limiting showers, toilet flushing, and the use of dishwashers and laundry machines, to help stabilize the system.

City officials say early findings suggest the break may be linked to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, a critical piece of infrastructure that suffered a major rupture in June 2024. That earlier incident led to prolonged water outages and sparked renewed debate about the condition of Calgary’s aging water system.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas said he has briefed Premier Danielle Smith and federal Conservative MP Corey Hogan on the situation. In a statement posted on social media, Farkas said both provincial and federal officials have offered support, and coordination among all levels of government is underway should additional resources be needed.

Emergency crews continue to investigate the cause of the break and the full extent of the damage. City officials are expected to provide an update at a news conference scheduled for later this morning.