Thunderstorms with a tornado risk eyes parts of Alberta Thursday
After a lull in extreme weather compared to last week, a severe thunderstorm risk may be in the cards for some parts of Alberta today, including the chance of a tornado.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), thunderstorm outlooks from the Storm Prediction Centre show a tornado risk in Alberta with severe thunderstorm activity today, July 23.
There is a prominent moderate risk zone present in the province today, northeast of Edmonton around the Cold Lake area and stretching into neighbouring Saskatchewan.
Weather risks in that area include wind gusts of up to 110 kilometres an hour, with thunderstorms that could produce hail up to five centimetres in size, the equivalent of a golf ball. The chance of a tornado forming somewhere in this area also can’t be ruled out.
A second moderate risk zone exists in the province today, which hugs Fort McMurray, Fort McKay, and portions of Highway 63. Risks in that area include wind gusts of up to 11o kilometres an hour, with thunderstorms that could bring hail up to three centimetres in size, roughly the size of a toonie. Rainfall totals of up to 60 millimetres may also be at play.
A minor risk is present in large portions of Alberta, including the Edmonton and Calgary regions, Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Lloydminster, and Medicine Hat. Wind gusts up to 80 kilometres an hour may occur if a thunderstorm develops, along with hail up to three centimetres in size, and 40 millimetres of rain.
ECCC Storm Prediction Centre
As the day progresses, you can check for any current weather watches and warnings on the ECCC website.