Calgary is bracing for a volatile weather pattern as thunderstorms are possible on Friday, followed by intense rain on Sunday, according to the Sky Watch Weather Centre. Meteorologist Jodi Hughes reports that the city will experience a shift from the recent warm spell to cooler, cloudier conditions heading into the weekend.
Friday Thunderstorm Threat
Friday afternoon brings a risk of thunderstorms across the Calgary region. The storms could develop rapidly, with potential for localized heavy downpours, gusty winds, and lightning. Residents are advised to monitor weather alerts and seek shelter if storms approach. The thunderstorm risk is expected to persist into the evening before tapering off overnight.
Weekend Outlook: Cooler and Wetter
After Friday's storms, Saturday will see cloudy skies and cooler temperatures, with highs struggling to reach seasonal averages. The real focus, however, is Sunday, when an intense rain system moves in. Hughes warns that Sunday could bring significant rainfall amounts, potentially leading to localized flooding in low-lying areas. The rain is expected to begin early Sunday morning and continue through the day, with the heaviest bands arriving in the afternoon.
Five-Day Forecast Details
The five-day forecast from Sky Watch shows a gradual cooldown from Friday's high of 22°C to Sunday's high of just 16°C. Monday will see lingering showers before conditions improve by Tuesday. Overnight lows will dip to around 10°C, making for a chilly start to the week. Hughes emphasizes that the pattern is typical for late June, but the intensity of Sunday's rain bears watching.
Preparation and Safety
With the potential for severe weather, Calgary officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor items, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay informed via Environment Canada alerts. The city's drainage systems are being monitored, but heavy rain could overwhelm them in spots. The thunderstorm risk also raises the possibility of hail, though no watches or warnings are currently in effect.
