Significant rainfall and a tornado risk target parts of the Prairies
Rainfall warnings and severe storm risks, including tornado threats, signal heavy rain and flooding across the Prairies through early next week.
Rainfall warnings are now in effect for parts of northwest Alberta as an active weather period unfolds across the Prairies. Areas under the warnings include Hinton, Grande Cache, and Grande Prairie, with some regions preparing for over 75-100 mm of rain by Friday night.
Meanwhile a severe thunderstorm threat is in place for extreme southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba on Thursday, with a potential for tornado development.
DON'T MISS: Staying safe from flash floods, a serious and deadly hazard
Be sure to stay alert to the changing conditions, and check for any weather warnings in your area.
Thursday into Friday: Severe thunderstorms with a heightened flood and tornado risk
A low pressure system is driving moisture and instability across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, leading to widespread showers and thunderstorms Thursday.
The heaviest rainfall is expected in Alberta’s Elbow region, while Edmonton, Calgary, and Regina may see lesser amounts of 5-15 mm.
Severe thunderstorms are anticipated in southeastern Saskatchewan and southwestern Manitoba Thursday afternoon, posing risks of large hail, strong winds, and localized heavy rainfall.
A tornado risk exists in extreme southwestern Manitoba, including Melita, Brandon, and Winkler, later Thursday.
Renewed wave of moisture and additional rainfall through next week
Rain will taper off for many areas by Saturday, though isolated showers and thunderstorms may persist along Alberta’s foothills and across Saskatchewan.
A renewed wave of moisture will push northward Sunday into early next week, prolonging rain over southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba through Tuesday.
Flood concerns remain high, particularly in Alberta’s Rockies and foothills, as significant rainfall may result in rising river levels downstream.
Residents in affected areas should monitor local warnings and prepare accordingly.