Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Edmonton and large parts of Alberta, warning of potential large hail, heavy rain, and wind gusts approaching 100 km/h on Wednesday afternoon and early evening.
Timing and Risk Areas
Meteorologist Chloe Katsademas from Environment Canada said storms are expected to develop in the central and southern Alberta regions later Wednesday. “The threat in terms of thunderstorms over the Edmonton area is great, and it’s expected to hit early to mid-afternoon,” she said. “We could see some large hail and strong wind.”
Edmonton and the Capital region are under a yellow watch, while eastern Alberta faces an orange watch, which includes a slight risk of a tornado.
Hail Size and Impact
Katsademas noted that Wednesday’s storms could produce hail measuring between three and six centimetres in diameter. “One centimetre hail is considered small, like pea-sized hail,” she explained. Hail of this size can damage vehicles, crops, and property.
The storms also bring the threat of heavy downpours and wind gusts up to 100 km/h, which could cause power outages and damage to structures.
Ground Saturation and Flood Risk
Last month, Edmonton broke a 112-year-old June rainfall record, with 216.5 mm of precipitation, surpassing the previous record set in 1914. The ground remains saturated, raising the risk of localized flooding from additional heavy rain. Katsademas warned that the region may see not only more thunderstorms but also higher-intensity storms due to the wet conditions.
Current Conditions and Forecast
As of 1 p.m. Wednesday, Edmonton’s Blatchford weather station reported 22°C with northerly winds at 12 km/h. The forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a 30 percent chance of showers and a high of 24°C. Winds will shift to northwest at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. Tonight, partly cloudy skies with a 30 percent chance of early evening showers and a low of 11°C are expected.
Environment Canada urges residents to monitor alerts and take precautions, such as securing loose objects and avoiding outdoor activities during the storm.
