The Edmonton region is once again preparing for severe weather, with Environment Canada issuing thunderstorm and tornado watches for parts of central Alberta on Tuesday.
Conditions were favourable for powerful storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, heavy rainfall and a possible tornado.
Severe Storms Expected to Move Toward Edmonton
Environment Canada said thunderstorms were expected to form late Tuesday afternoon near the Rocky Mountain House and Edson regions before moving east across central Alberta.
The storms were forecast to reach the Edmonton area later in the evening, bringing the potential for dangerous weather conditions.
Tornado Watch Issued for Central Alberta
A tornado watch means weather conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.
As of Tuesday afternoon, advisories covered a wide area of central Alberta, stretching from Red Deer in the south to Athabasca in the north, and from the foothills in the west to the Vegreville area in the east.
Boaters Urged to Seek Shelter
Because Tuesday was hot, some residents may have been outdoors or on the water when severe weather approached.
Environment Canada warned that anyone on lakes or rivers should get to shore immediately if storms develop. Being in a small boat on open water during lightning is especially dangerous.
Possible Damage From Wind, Hail and Rain
Officials warned that severe storms could damage homes, buildings and outdoor structures.
Roofs, fences, trees and other exposed property could be affected by strong winds or large hail. Heavy rain may also flood streets and low-lying areas, particularly because the ground is already saturated from repeated rainfall in recent weeks.
Flooded Roads Pose Serious Risk
Drivers were warned not to attempt driving through flooded roads.
Floodwater can hide road damage, stall vehicles and leave motorists stranded. Low-lying routes and underpasses are especially vulnerable during sudden heavy rainfall.
Edmonton Recently Hit by Powerful Storms
The latest watch followed several days of intense weather in and around Edmonton.
On Friday evening, a storm moving about 45 km/h brought damaging wind gusts, heavy rain and hail as large as quarters to west and north Edmonton.
On Saturday afternoon, a larger system moving about 60 km/h pushed in from the west and created conditions severe enough that Environment Canada said it could potentially produce a tornado.
Previous Storms Caused Flooding and Damage
The weekend storms brought fierce winds and heavy rain that knocked down trees, damaged buildings and flooded streets.
Some low-lying areas, including underpasses along Whitemud Drive near 170 Street and 178 Street, were affected by flooding.
What to Do During a Tornado
Environment Canada advises people to take shelter immediately if they hear a roaring sound, see a funnel cloud, spot swirling debris near the ground or notice threatening weather approaching.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents should:
- Go indoors and move to the lowest level of a sturdy building.
- Stay away from outside walls and windows.
- Shelter in a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet.
- Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and temporary shelters if a stronger building is nearby.
- As a last resort, lie in a low-lying area and protect your head from flying debris.
Residents Told to Monitor Alerts
Because severe storm alerts can change quickly, Albertans were advised to monitor updates from Environment Canada and Alberta Emergency Alert.
The alert area may shift as storm systems move, making it important for residents to stay informed through official websites, apps and emergency notifications.
The Edmonton region faced another round of dangerous summer storms Tuesday, with thunderstorm and tornado watches in place across much of central Alberta.
Environment Canada warned of strong winds, large hail, heavy rain and possible tornado activity, while saturated ground raised the risk of flooding.
After several damaging storms in recent days, residents were urged to prepare, avoid flooded roads, seek shelter during severe weather and monitor official alerts closely.