For the first time since May, Alberta has surpassed the 2000 mark in daily new COVID cases. 

There were 2,020 new COVID-19 cases reported in the past 24 hours.

Hospitalizations increased by another 15 patients for a total of 911. 

There was a decrease of seven ICU patients to 215.

Sadly, there were 18 COVID deaths reported for a total of 2,523.

There are now 19,201 active cases in the province. 

The Delta variant is causing a powerful fourth wave in Alberta with hospitals buckling under the rising numbers.

Ontario has offered beds for patients if and when the healthcare system reaches maximum capacity.

The government issued a State of Public Health Emergency on Wednesday, September 15. 

On Monday, September 20 the Restrictions Exemption Program (aka Vaccine Passport) will go into effect in the province in which proof of vaccination will be required to enter various businesses, institutions, and events.

One shred of good news, there appears to be a rise in the COVID-19 vaccination rate.

One bit of good news, first dose vaccinations have now reached 80 per cent in Alberta while 72 per cent of Albertans are now fully immunized.

Cochrane now has 100 active COVID-19 cases while Rocky View County is reporting 160 cases.