- Edmonton flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, were cancelled on Feb. 22 after violence broke out in the resort city. Albertan tourists, including Edmontonian Murray Billett, are among those stranded. The unrest, triggered by the Mexican army killing a Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader, prompted a shelter-in-place order and a Global Affairs Canada travel advisory for the state of Jalisco. Edmonton International Airport said that one outbound flight was affected and three inbound flights were cancelled.
- The City of Edmonton is seeking private-sector proposals for infrastructure and service partnerships as it prepares for rapid population growth. The City issued a Request for Expression of Interest covering sites including Woodcroft Library, the Cumberland and Big Lake fire stations, the Windermere North Transit Centre and arena facilities. Officials said the partnerships aim to help deliver infrastructure and services that support community needs. The RFEOI is available online, with questions accepted until March 26 and submissions due April 2.
- The Indigenous Storytelling Series at Fort Edmonton Park continues through March at the Clerks' Quarters building, inviting visitors to connect through Indigenous knowledge, cultures, and past experiences. Two sessions are held each Saturday and Sunday.
- Both sides of Alberta's separation debate expressed displeasure with the referendum Premier Danielle Smith announced last week, with some calling it a "distraction" and "gaslighting." The referendum will include nine questions, predominantly concerning immigration and constitutional amendments. The referendum is set for October.
- Alberta's early water level forecasts offer a hopeful outlook for summer 2026, with improved water supplies expected due to above-normal mountain snowpack. The Ministry of Environment and Protected Areas said conditions are the most favourable since early 2022, benefiting farmers, ranchers, and firefighters after years of drought. While good stream flow is anticipated, Trevor Hadwen of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada emphasized that soil moisture for agriculture remains a concern, requiring additional late snowfall and spring rains. Alberta Wildfire and Environment Canada predict above-normal precipitation and temperatures in the coming months.
Headlines: Feb. 23, 2026
By Mariam Ibrahim