A rescue on the Bow River on Tuesday is prompting renewed warnings about fast‑moving water and hazardous river conditions.
Fire crews were called just before noon to an area downstream of Edworthy Park, where an adult and two youths were found in the river holding onto a cluster of trees.
Two rescue boats brought the group safely back to shore, and crews recovered their paddleboards and belongings. All three were wearing lifejackets and were not hurt.
Calgary Fire Department spokesperson Alex Kwan says the rescue highlights why a river safety advisory remains in place. The Bow River is flowing at more than 500 cubic metres per second, nearly double the level where advisories are normally issued.
Upstream high‑flow warnings have added even more water and debris, making navigation difficult and increasing the risk of being pushed into hazards.
“It’s not suitable for recreational activities right now,” says Kwan. “All the upstream areas have had high flow advisories and warnings, so there’s a lot more water than when we had our last river advisory.”
The fire department issued the advisory on Monday, urging everyone to stay off both the Bow and Elbow Rivers.
Officials are asking people to reschedule any river activities until conditions improve, and reminding cyclists and pedestrians to watch for submerged pathways in low‑lying areas. They’re also asking Calgarians to share these safety messages with friends and family.