Government commemorates ‘sombre anniversary’ 10 years after southern Alberta floods

Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz says it’s a “sombre anniversary” for many Albertans.

It has been 10 years since the floods in southern Alberta.

Schulz says in a statement that the floods changed the way the province prepares for severe weather events and suggests Alberta is better prepared than ever.

Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek adds that, while it was a trying time for many, the response to those floods cast a light on the city as a kind and caring community and led to many infrastructure improvements.

The 2013 floods left five people dead and damaged thousands of homes and businesses across southern Alberta.

Total damage was estimated at more than $5 billion, making it one of the costliest floods in Canadian history.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 20, 2023.