All outdoor pools in Calgary now allowed as water supply restoration work continues
CBC
In response to high temperatures in Calgary, the city says all outdoor pools will now be allowed, even though Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions remain.
After a catastrophic feeder main break on June 5 that left Calgary in a water-supply crisis, the situation with Calgary's water system continues to improve, and officials have been gradually lifting restrictions.
The city moved from Stage 4 to Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions and lifted the fire ban on the weekend.
Typically, Stage 3 restrictions prohibit the filling of outdoor pools and use of spray parks, but the city announced an exemption Saturday for outdoor public pools and city-owned spray parks.
"As of today, we will be extending this exemption to all outdoor pools, including private residential, backyard and kiddie pools, as well as non-residential outdoor pools. We hope this move creates more opportunities for people to stay cool over the coming weeks," said Francois Bouchart, the director of capital priorities and investment with the city's infrastructure services department, during the city's Wednesday afternoon update.
"This was a decision made with health and safety in mind to provide a way for Calgarians to escape from the heat. We know that it can be challenging to stay cool during this weather."
On Monday, water use reached 540 million litres, up from the 507 million litres used Sunday.
Tuesday's usage increased to 555 million litres, and the city says it expects usage will increase yet again on Wednesday in light of the extremely hot temperatures. The mercury hit 34 C by mid-afternoon, Environment Canada reported.
"When we get into prolonged stretches of warm weather, it's normal for water use to increase. That's the pattern we're seeing now," said Bouchart.
However, he says Calgary's distribution system is stable and able to meet water demand as long as Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions are in place.
Under the lower-level restrictions, plants can be watered by hand using a can or container, but sprinklers and hoses are not permitted.
Businesses can use water for construction purposes, such as dust control and grading.
"The last thing any of us wants is another major break that could put us back to where we were in early June," said Bouchart.
According to the City of Calgary, the pipe is now operating at 55 per cent capacity while pressure has gradually continued to increase.
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