THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Marriott

Severe flooding is impacting several communities in Southern Alberta including the city of Calgary, prompting authorities to declare a state of local emergency and order evacuations. In addition to evacuations, power has been shut off for many residents and there are road closures throughout the region.

Beginning on 10 June 2013, Alberta, Canada, experienced heavy rainfall that triggered catastrophic flooding described by the provincial government as the worst in Alberta’s history. Areas along the Bow, Elbow, Highwood, Sheep and South Saskatchewan rivers and their tributaries were particularly impacted. A total of 27 local states of emergency were declared and 28 emergency operations centres were activated as water levels rose and numerous communities were placed under evacuation orders. Over 100,000 people have been displaced throughout the region.