Calgary area hit by torrential rain, flooding

Heavy rain and thunderstorms continue to cause problems in southern Alberta Friday afternoon.

As of 5:00 p.m.there were tornado warnings for the M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavelyand forLethbridgeand several surrounding communities.

Tornado warnings were lifted hours later.

There are alsonumerous thunderstorm watches and warningsacross the south of the province.

• Environment Canada warnings and watches
• Send usyour weather photosatcalgaryphotos@cbc.ca.

The Calgary Fire Department reporteda spike in flood-related calls Friday afternoon.

There's been some overland flooding in Shawnessythat's resulted in water in some basements.

Manholecovers floated offin the northwest,whilein the community ofHawkwood, a vehiclegot trapped in deep water.

There are also reports of problems with street lights in parts of the city.

The City of Calgary says up to 90mm of rain is expected from midday Friday through to Sunday.

City staffhave been releasing water from the Glenmore Reservoir to accommodate the forecasted rainfall, which has resulted in flows on the Elbow River increasing.

People are being warned to keep a safe distance from the banks of the Elbow until further notice.

Calgary Transit is urging people to give themselves extra travel time, as unpredictable weather can create major delays, especially on city buses.

The Calgary Stampede is a washout again Friday with only the brave venturing down to the grounds in wet weathergear.

"There are lots of indoor activities to take advantage of," says Stampede spokespersonJennifer Booth.

"We know we're an outdoor show, so we've always had a really good balance of indoor and outdoor activities for visitors."

The Stampede is again offering $5 entrybetween 5-7 p.m. to try to boost attendance.