Severe thunderstorm approaching northwest of Airdrie
A powerful thunderstorm is moving toward areas northwest of Airdrie, according to Environment Canada, which issued the warning at 1:08 p.m. on Sunday, June 15. The storm, located 25 kilometres west of Elkton, is tracking east at 25 kilometres per hour.
Risk of toonie-size hail and strong wind gusts
Meteorologists warn the storm is capable of producing very strong wind gusts and hail the size of a toonie — about 2.5 centimetres in diameter.
“Large hail may cause significant damage and injury,” the warning reads. “Take immediate cover if a thunderstorm approaches. If outside, protect yourself from flying debris and hail.”
Warning currently in effect for the following Alberta areas
A severe weather warning remains in place for:
M.D. of Bighorn near the Ghost River Wilderness
Mountain View County near Cremona and Water Valley
Mountain View County near Sundre
No direct warning for Airdrie, but watch remains in place
As of now, no direct warning has been issued for Airdrie, but a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for Rocky View County, which includes Airdrie and Crossfield.
The watch was issued by Environment Canada at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, noting that conditions are favourable for the development of storms capable of producing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and large hail into the evening hours.
Lightning warning: danger to public safety
The federal agency also reminds the public:
“When thunder roars, go indoors!”
“Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.”
The development of this storm cell will be closely monitored over the coming hours. Communities including Elkton, Cremona, Sundre, and the broader Airdrie area are advised to remain alert until the warning is lifted.
