Tofield, Alberta cancels Canada Day festivities due to flood emergency
Additional rain is in the forecast, worsening flood concerns.
An ongoing flood emergency in Tofield, Alberta, has forced the cancellation of Canada Day festivities for the community of about 2,100 people, located about 50 km southeast of Edmonton.
An inundated lot in Tofield on June 23, 2026. (Connor O'Donovan for The Weather Network)
The town remains under a local state of emergency after heavy rainfall over the weekend flooded roads, damaged basements, and forced some businesses to close.
Mayor Adam Hall made the Canada Day announcement on Facebook Thursday at 11 a.m. local time.
“This decision was not made lightly,” he said in a video posted to the town’s Facebook page.
“As you are all well aware, our town operations and administration staff have been working around the clock since flooding began over the weekend, and we are expecting more rain and possible flooding this weekend.”
Sandbags to help create flood barriers in Tofield, Alberta on June 23, 2026. (Connor O'Donovan for The Weather Network)
Why the celebrations were cancelled
Since Sunday, Tofield residents have been asked to reduce water usage to help prevent sewage backups.
Flooding has placed some strain on parts of the community's wastewater infrastructure, and Hall said this factored into the town’s decision-making process.
“Our Canada Day event draws hundreds of people into our community,” he said.
“It is not responsible to increase the number of people who are adding to that wastewater system and accessing limited roads.”
Last weekend’s heavy rain brought more than 100 mm of precipitation to the Beaver County area, of which Tofield is a part, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
Flooded roads, business closures, and basement damage have been reported across the community.
The town has opened an emergency reception centre for displaced residents.
Flooding around Tofield Packers Ltd. on June 23, 2026. The business remains closed due to rising waters. (Connor O'Donovan for The Weather Network)
More rain on the way
An additional 30-60 mm of rain is possible in the Tofield area from Friday through Saturday, with the potential for another round of storms on Sunday.
With soils already saturated and water levels running high, additional rainfall could worsen flooding concerns.
Header image: Aerial shot of Tofield, Alberta taken on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 (Connor O'Donovan for The Weather Network)