Severe thunderstorms, possible tornadoes threaten Alberta, Edmonton region Tuesday

Alberta is bracing for another day of severe weather as central and northern regions, including the Edmonton area, face the possibility of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Environment Canada has issued multiple watches, warning of conditions favorable for storms capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail, and torrential rain. A tornado watch is specifically in effect for areas west, south, and north of Edmonton, with the greatest risk expected between 4 and 8 p.m. Tuesday. These storms could also bring tornadoes, along with hail up to the size of baseballs and intense rainfall. The City of Edmonton itself is under a severe thunderstorm watch, with the primary concern being heavy rain on already waterlogged ground. The region has experienced an unusually active summer for storms, leaving the groundwater table saturated. This has caused increased runoff into the storm-water system, which is struggling to cope. City utility provider EPCOR has noted the need for a dry spell to allow the system to recover. Recent heavy rainfall, including a deluge last Saturday night that dropped 30 mm in about an hour, has compounded the issue.

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Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.