Why it's trending
The trending query reflects public concern over severe weather forecasts for Edmonton, including a tornado risk and very large hail, which prompt widespread searches for safety information and current conditions.
Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Edmonton area as a low-pressure system developing off the foothills threatens the region with powerful storms on Saturday. The watch covers much of Alberta, with the greatest risk expected west of Edmonton, where tornadoes are possible.
According to The Weather Network, moderate to high instability and strong wind shear will allow thunderstorms to organize into supercells, producing very large hail up to the size of golf balls. The main hazards also include damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall, with tornadoes possible in western areas near Edmonton.
Wildfire smoke lingering from earlier in the week may act as a moderating factor. The Weather Network notes that while a wind shift should improve surface smoke, upper-level smoke could suppress thunderstorm development and reduce severity. Farther south, a heat ridge will cap storms, keeping conditions very hot but suppressing severe weather in southern Alberta.
Residents are urged to stay alert through the afternoon and evening, and to take immediate shelter if a tornado warning is issued. The timing and intensity of the storms remain uncertain due to the smoke wildcard, making close monitoring of official updates essential.
Timeline
- Severe thunderstorm watch issued
Environment Canada posts a severe thunderstorm watch for Edmonton area, warning of potential large hail, strong winds, and tornadoes.
- Storms expected to develop
The Weather Network forecasts storms to organize into supercells, with very large hail (golf-ball size) and a tornado risk, especially west of Edmonton.
- Wildfire smoke may reduce severity
Upper-level smoke could suppress storm development, adding uncertainty to the forecast.
Questions people ask
What is the severe weather risk in Edmonton today?
Edmonton is under a severe thunderstorm watch with risks of very large hail (golf-ball size), damaging winds, heavy rain, and one or two tornadoes, especially west of the city.
When will the storms hit Edmonton?
Storms are expected to develop in the mid-afternoon and continue through the evening on Saturday, July 25.
How big could the hail be?
The Weather Network warns of very large hail possibly up to the size of golf balls.
Join the conversation 0
Comments are reviewed before publishing.