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Epcor is asking people in Edmonton and surrounding communities to conserve water through the weekend.

The company first put the call out Thursday after heavy rainfall west of Edmonton saw water levels in the North Saskatchewan River rise to 6.7 metres, quadrupling the rate of water flow through the city.

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The increased flow washed debris from the banks into the water and churned up silt from the bottom of the river.

Tim le Riche, Epcor spokesman, said increased turbidity — or the amount of dirt particles floating in the water — has slowed the rate at which water treatment plants can produce clean water.

While Edmonton’s water reservoirs hold up to three days’ worth of potable water, Epcor is asking people to limit non-essential water use.

There is no immediate risk or concerns about the quality of drinking water, le Riche said, adding that conserving water at this time was a matter of “prudence.”

The company is asking people in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, Leduc and Fort Saskatchewan to avoid watering lawns or gardens, filling pools or hot tubs and to postpone washing cars over the weekend.

Other suggestions include taking short showers, delaying laundry or turning off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving.

Le Riche said the company will update the public Monday on the water situation.