Lessons learned from the 2013 Calgary Flood: How to prepare for the next disaster

Urban centres are constantly exposed to natural hazards. Recovering from natural disasters is a complex process that lacks a grounded theory and an operational definition. This thesis proposed a two-layer conceptual framework that can be helpful when exploring the implementation of recovery efforts. This research project explores the municipal approach of the City of Calgary during the recovery from the 2013 Southern Alberta Flood. The City of Calgary responded to this flood in a partially effective manner. The Calgary case study is a case where the local government had in place the right processes to develop an effective recovery. Nevertheless, the City requires guidance on what a recovery plan should address. Calgary’s approach proposes challenges related to the development of meaningful public participation methods and the slight assistance provided to the business community. Recovery is an action that requires the involvement of the affected and relevant stakeholders to help build governance capacity, which in turn creates a resilient community.