The storm pattern seen often throughout July will return to the Prairies this weekend, continuing into next week. Friday night brought intense storms, some of which brought the threat back to northern Alberta with warnings issued. On Saturday, the severe risk will cover parts of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan. For more information on Saturday’s storm potential, read below.
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Saturday: Storm threat continues, severe possible for some
Storm energy continues to slide a bit further east into Saskatchewan on Saturday to kick off the long weekend. Scattered thunderstorms, mostly of a non-severe nature, will be the story on Saturday.
A shallow low will develop over southern Saskatchewan, driving much of the activity across the western prairies. The threat of severe thunderstorms will extend across the foothills of Alberta, including Calgary and much of southern Saskatchewan.
Locally heavy rainfall will be the main concern for the storms due to the amount of atmospheric moisture present. There could also be large hail and local gusty winds.
Temporary relief from the extreme heat will also be seen across much of Alberta as many heat advisories have been lifted, with the exception of the far south.
Storms return to the Rockies on Sunday as boundaries cover the entire region.
Some areas of the southern Prairies could miss the storms, but above-normal precipitation totals are expected, with a risk of excessive rain and flooding, in central and northern parts of the region, including Edmonton, Alta. This will include areas that have become very dry during July.
For the full Prairies forecast, watch the video above.
Miniature courtesy of Christian King, taken in Cremona, Alta.