Alberta river forecasters have more alarms, are better prepared for flooding

EDMONTON – Alberta’s river forecasters say they’re better prepared than last year for flooding.

An alarm system now monitors about 40 rain gauges in flood-prone areas across the province.

River flow forecaster Colleen Walford says if there is intense rain, the alarm will give earlier warning to environment staff and municipalities.

She says improved communication between her office and municipalities also means everyone will be better able to handle a flood emergency.

Last June, devastating floods hit Calgary and southern Alberta, displacing about 100,000 people and destroying or damaging more than 14,000 homes.

The province says it’s also creating a free mobile app that will give people updated information on river levels where they live.