50-80 mm: Additional heavy rain and heightened flood risk in Alberta
More heavy rainfall for Edmonton and central Alberta as a low pressure system stalls through this weekend
June has already delivered substantial rainfall across Alberta, and more is on the way with the potential for additional impacts in the Edmonton area and beyond.
A low pressure system developing Friday will bring another round of rain to the region, with central Alberta anticipated to receive 50-80 mm of rainfall between Friday and Monday.
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Localized flooding is possible as water levels remain elevated following recent heavy rainfall events.
More significant rainfall washes into Edmonton area this weekend
The system is expected to stall over Alberta due to a Rex Block—when high pressure to the north prevents a low pressure system from progressing—resulting in prolonged rain and localized impacts, including risks of flooding, washouts, and infrastructure disruptions.
The moisture fueling this system once again originates from the Gulf, which has been the driving source behind the heavy rainfall events across Alberta this month.
The heaviest rain for central Alberta is projected from Saturday into Sunday, with winds between 40-60 km/h compounding the challenges.
By Monday, the eastern blocking pattern begins to weaken, allowing the trough at the back of the low pressure system to shift southward, directing heavier bands of rain into southern areas and the foothills.
Central Alberta can expect between 50-80 mm of rainfall from Friday to Monday.
Unlike last week’s storm, this system is less widespread, with the heaviest rainfall expected in a narrow band, resulting in more localized impacts.
Edmonton's rainiest June on record?
In Edmonton, the month could set rainfall records.
As of June 24, the city has recorded 203 mm of rain, nearing its all-time June record of 216.5 mm in 1914.
The Edmonton Airport has already observed 176.4 mm, with forecasts suggesting an additional 50-75 mm through Tuesday.