09/09/2026
From September 9 to 15, TC Energy is performing routine inspections and maintenance on their natural gas pipeline through Medicine Hat.
👂 As part of this work, you may hear a loud roaring noise known as a ‘blowdown’ for around 20 minutes when natural gas is released to depressurize the pipe. This will occur in the City’s northwest (near the Unit 16 & 17 power generation turbines) and at the City’s main power plant near the South Saskatchewan River. The sound can be as loud as an airplane engine, but don’t be alarmed – this is all part of the process.
🔥 Flaring only if necessary
Specialized tools are used to inspect the pipeline from the inside, checking for corrosion, damage and any other anomalies that might affect safety and condition.
👀 Sometimes, flaring is required to safely move these tools through the line. When this happens, there is loud noise, heat and a large visible flame from a flare stack that is positioned at the City’s main power plant. Again, this is all part of the safe maintenance and operation of the high-pressure gas line and is not cause for alarm.
Learn more at tcenergy.com.
