Calgary Faces Water Crisis: Bearspaw Main Break Traps Drivers

URGENT UPDATE: A significant water main break in Calgary has prompted emergency repairs and a city-wide advisory. The Bearspaw South Feeder Main ruptured on Tuesday night, flooding the Trans-Canada Highway and trapping drivers in icy water. At least 13 individuals were rescued from eight vehicles as emergency crews rushed to the scene.

Authorities confirm that the City of Calgary, led by Mayor Jeromy Farkas, is holding a critical technical briefing today at 2 p.m. local time to discuss the ongoing repairs and infrastructure concerns. This is the second rupture of this water main in just over a year and a half, raising alarms about the reliability of the city’s water infrastructure.

The break has severely impacted more than 3,000 homes and businesses in the neighborhoods of Montgomery, Parkdale, and Point McKay. Residents are currently under a boil-water advisory, with officials urging all city dwellers, along with those in the surrounding communities of Strathmore, Airdrie, Chestermere, and the Tsuutʼina Nation, to conserve water. Measures include limiting showers to three minutes and only utilizing dishwashers and washing machines when they are full.

The latest developments follow a similar incident in June 2024, which resulted in a prolonged water outage and restrictions that lasted throughout the summer. As crews work to repair the damaged roadway—particularly near Sarcee Trail and the 16 Avenue Northwest/Trans Canada Highway interchange—the urgency for restoring service grows.

City officials emphasize the importance of swift action to prevent further disruption and ensure public safety. As repairs continue, the community is rallying together to face what has become a dire situation.

Residents are advised to stay tuned for further updates from the City of Calgary as this situation evolves. The technical briefing is expected to provide vital information on the repair timeline and safety measures moving forward.