High potential for severe thunderstorms in Alberta today
Today, Alberta faces another round of severe weather, with strong thunderstorms expected to develop across parts of the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a moderate weather threat, warning of wind gusts reaching up to 110 km/h, large hail, and atmospheric instability throughout the afternoon.
Atmospheric conditions primed for storm development
According to ECCC’s Storm Prediction Centre, afternoon highs are forecast to reach around 30°C (86°F) in some areas, with dew points in the low teens, creating a thermodynamic environment conducive to the formation of intense storm cells.
A strong 60–70 KT jet at 500 hPa, combined with inverted-V profiles, is expected to promote momentum transfer to the surface along a developing cold front, fuelling storm dynamics across the region.
Risk areas and expected phenomena
The moderate weather threat zone includes Edmonton, extending northeast and southwest of the city. These areas could experience wind gusts between 100 and 110 km/h (62–68 mph) and hail up to 3 centimetres in diameter (1.18 inches) — approximately the size of a toonie.
Beyond the moderate risk region, a broader area under a minor threat encompasses much of the province, including Edson, Fort McMurray, Red Deer, and Lloydminster, where wind gusts of up to 70 km/h (43 mph) remain possible.
Air quality affected by wildfires in northern Alberta
Meanwhile, wildfires continue to impact air quality across northern Alberta, with thick smoke prompting special air quality statements and warnings in many areas.
Forecasters note that a southerly flow ahead of an approaching shortwave will likely push most of the smoke northward, away from central Alberta and toward the 60th parallel, offering temporary improvement in air conditions for the central regions.
Warm week ahead for Edmonton and Calgary
Looking ahead, the seven-day forecast points to a hot start to June. Edmonton is expected to reach a high of 30°C (86°F) today, while Calgary will peak slightly lower at 29°C (84°F), setting the stage for a sunny and warm week in Alberta’s major urban centres.
